Kevin-Prince Boateng Reveals Forced Black Stars Exit Over 2014 World Cup Criticism

Former Ghanaian international Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed that he was forced out of the Black Stars squad during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. According to Boateng, his dismissal stemmed from his outspoken criticism of football officials regarding organizational issues and financial matters within the team’s camp.

Speaking on the Vibe with Five podcast, the former Schalke 04 forward explained that prior to Ghana’s final group stage match against Portugal, the entire squad held a meeting with football officials. During this meeting, Boateng voiced his frustrations about the poor organization surrounding the team’s participation in the tournament. He also directly challenged the officials on the issue of financial payments to players, urging them to prioritize investment in the team for improved success.

“I got kicked out of the national team and Schalke the same season because I spoke to the president about payment and organization. We had a meeting and I criticised them, arguing that they can’t treat us that way. I was requested that they should invest in the organization and pay the players well,” Boateng stated.

Boateng further disclosed the abrupt manner of his expulsion. He recounted receiving a letter from the team’s officials at 6 AM the morning before the crucial Portugal game, ordering him to leave the camp. This marked the definitive end of his national team career.

“The following morning at 6 am, they put a letter under my door before the Portugal game, and they kicked me out. A German journalist called and told me I had been kicked out, and it was everywhere in the news. I refuted it earlier, but after reading the letter, I confirmed to him that I had been kicked out. I was compelled to leave the hotel within 15 minutes, and I did,” he added.

The 2014 World Cup campaign for Ghana was indeed marred by numerous controversies, most notably concerning player bonuses, which led to significant confrontations between the players and team officials. It is recalled that Sulley Muntari was another prominent player whose national team career was impacted following these turbulent events.