Mo Kudus missed a crucial penalty in the final moments of the AFCON qualifier against Niger, leading to Ghana's failure to qualify for AFCON 2025. The 24-year-old has faced immense pressure this season, both from his fans and the club, resulting in a series of underwhelming performances that have threatened his place in the team. His missed opportunity has intensified scrutiny over his future and mental state as he struggles to find form on the pitch.
The reaction from the Ghanaian fans was telling; they even booed him during the penalty attempt. This indicates a significant drop in confidence not just in himself, but also in how fans and critics perceive his abilities. Having once been hailed as one of West Ham's key players since joining from Ajax, the drastic change in fortunes raises concerns about whether he can recover from this season's setbacks and regain his previous form.
Mo Kudus' current situation is exacerbated by his recent suspension for violent conduct in a prior match against Tottenham, adding unnecessary pressure during an already challenging period for both him and West Ham. Coach Julen Lopetegui's tactics have seemingly failed to bring the best out of Kudus, further complicating his ability to deliver on the field amid external pressures and a struggling team dynamic. How he rebounds from these challenges could determine his future.
Kudus is rumored to be a target for clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal, with a substantial price tag of 85 million attached to him. However, his inconsistent performances this season, including the recent AFCON disappointment, lead to questions regarding whether he is worth such an investment. With his current form and mental state being scrutinized, it remains to be seen if he can turn things around before the transfer window.
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