I owe my success to Abedi Pele – Ahmed Barusso

Former Ghanaian midfielder Ahmed Barusso has credited Ghanaian football legend Abedi Ayew Pele for playing a pivotal role in shaping his career.

Barusso, known for his combative style and strong performances in midfield, enjoyed a long and successful career across Europe, particularly in Italy.

He played for several Italian clubs, including AS Roma, Torino, and Genoa, before earning a move to Turkish giants Galatasaray after impressing during the 2008 African Cup of Nations.

The 40-year-old midfielder disclosed that starting his career at a club managed by Abedi Ayew had a significant impact on his development as a player.

Speaking on Dan Kwaku Yeboah TV, Barusso praised the three-time African Footballer of the Year for his invaluable mentorship and guidance during his early years in football.

“I owe my determination, robustness, and hunger to achieve success to Abedi Pele and Coach Prince. Abedi always told me that to be the best, I had to do ten times what the white man does; otherwise, I would never get the chance to play. Those words have stayed with me, and every time I stepped on the pitch, I gave my everything,” he said

Barusso also shared an anecdote about how Abedi Ayew predicted his future move to Europe, declining an offer from then-Liberty Professionals coach Sellas Tetteh to bring him to the club.

“Abedi once turned down Sellas’ proposal to bring me to Liberty because he felt they wouldn’t be able to develop my football properly. He predicted that I would play in Europe,” Barusso added.

He made six appearances for the senior national team after his debut in 2003, scoring two goals during his international career.

FKA/EB