Kevin-Prince Boateng reveals he once rejected Ghana call-up

Former AC Milan midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng has disclosed that he initially turned down the opportunity to represent Ghana, years before eventually completing his nationality switch in 2010 ahead of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Boateng, who went on to become an integral member of the Black Stars during the tournament, admitted in an interview with Bona Fide Sports that he felt more connected to his German roots at the time.

Boateng’s Reflection

“Ghana offered me already to play at the 2006 World Cup, and I said no because I still saw my chance in Germany. You think about your career; it’s bigger to play for Germany.
Then 2010, I was like, nah, it’s not bigger, I’m big already. Everybody knows my name; it doesn’t matter what nationality I play.”

He explained that his upbringing in a German household influenced his early decisions, though his personality and playing style often defied the rigid structures he associated with German football culture.

Black Stars Career

• Debut for Ghana: 2010 World Cup in South Africa.


• Impact: Impressed with his energy and versatility, helping Ghana reach the quarter-finals.


• Appearances: 15 caps for the Black Stars.


• Goals: Scored 2 international goals.


• Final World Cup: Featured again at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Boateng’s journey reflects the complex identity choices faced by dual-nationality players. His eventual decision to represent Ghana gave the Black Stars a high-profile boost on the global stage, while his candid reflections underline the career dilemmas many footballers navigate between heritage and opportunity.

This revelation adds depth to Boateng’s story, showing how his eventual embrace of Ghana shaped both his career and the Black Stars’ history.