Accra, Ghana – June 22, 2025
Ghanaian international and AS Monaco central defender Mohammed Salisu paid a special visit to President John Dramani Mahama this week, presenting him with a signed replica jersey of the French Ligue 1 side’s away kit.
The thoughtful gesture took place at the President’s residence in Accra, as Salisu, currently in Ghana for his offseason break, made a courtesy call on the sitting head of state.
The 26-year-old defender, who has had a rollercoaster season with the principality club, expressed his admiration for President Mahama, describing him as a leader who has continuously inspired the youth of Ghana.
“It’s always a great honour to meet a man who has led — and is leading — our nation with vision and integrity,” Salisu said during the visit.
“This jersey is just a token of appreciation for the role you’ve played in inspiring us, especially those of us representing Ghana on the global stage.”
In response, His Excellency President Mahama graciously accepted the jersey and commended the footballer for his resilience in the face of adversity and his continued commitment to both club and country.
“Young men like you carry the dreams of many Ghanaians on your shoulders. I’m proud of your journey so far, and I believe your best is yet to come,” President Mahama stated.
“Thank you for this wonderful gift. I will wear it with pride.”
Salisu’s Mixed Fortunes at Monaco
Salisu joined AS Monaco in 2023 following a spell at Premier League side Southampton, and while he started his Ligue 1 journey with promise, the 2024/25 season proved to be a mix of highs and lows for the Ghanaian defender.
One of the highlights of his campaign came in October 2024, when he put on a commanding display against FC Barcelona during the UEFA Champions League group stage. That match had fans and pundits alike lauding his tactical awareness and physical presence, calling it his “breakthrough night” in French football.
However, the momentum was short-lived. A nagging hamstring injury ruled Salisu out for several weeks and disrupted his rhythm just as he was finding form.
Upon his return, he found it difficult to reclaim a starting spot under head coach Adi Hütter, who had reshuffled the defensive line in Salisu’s absence. Despite these challenges, he still managed to make 24 appearances across all competitions, contributing three goals — an impressive tally for a centre-back.
Monaco, known as Les Rouges et Blancs or “The Rocks,” finished fourth in Ligue 1, narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification but securing a place in the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League.
Transfer Rumours and Ghana National Team Absence
Salisu’s future at Monaco remains uncertain as reports continue to link him with a potential move away from the Stade Louis II. Several European clubs — including teams in the English Premier League and Italy’s Serie A — are reportedly monitoring his situation, especially given his limited playing time and Monaco’s plans to reinforce their backline.
Still, the former Real Valladolid defender remains focused on regaining peak fitness and returning stronger next season.
“It’s been a tough season mentally and physically,” Salisu said in a recent interview.
“But I’ve learned a lot. I’m working harder than ever to be back better — stronger, smarter, and fully ready for whatever comes next.”
In addition to club struggles, Salisu was omitted from Ghana’s squad for the recently held Unity Cup in London, a friendly tournament organised to bring together Ghanaians in the diaspora and give exposure to the national team.
Ghana head coach Otto Addo opted for younger, in-form defenders such as Mohammed Kudus and Joseph Aidoo, sparking conversations around Salisu’s future role in the Black Stars setup.
Nonetheless, President Mahama used the visit to encourage Salisu not to be discouraged by the temporary setbacks but to remain focused on regaining his place in the national team.
“Ghana still needs you,” the President told him.
“Continue to work hard. Form is temporary, but class is permanent. Your moment will return.”
A Symbol of Respect and Patriotism
Salisu’s presentation of the Monaco jersey to President Mahama is more than just a footballer meeting a head of state — it’s a gesture that symbolizes the bridge between leadership and youth, sports and governance, and patriotism and identity.
In a country where football is deeply interwoven with national pride, such moments resonate with the public and reflect the humility and cultural consciousness of Ghana’s athletes abroad.
The jersey — Monaco’s sleek white and charcoal grey away strip with bold red accents — was customized with Salisu’s name and number, making it a meaningful keepsake for the President.
Photos from the visit, which quickly made their way to social media, show the pair engaged in cheerful conversation and holding the jersey, with President Mahama beaming with pride.
Looking Ahead: Salisu’s Redemption Path
As the 2025/26 season approaches, Mohammed Salisu is entering a crucial phase in his career. With lingering transfer talks, injury recovery, and national team ambitions all hanging in the balance, the defender is expected to have a defining year ahead.
He remains a core figure in Ghana’s defensive future if he regains fitness and form. With the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers looming, many hope he will bounce back and rejoin the Black Stars at full strength.
For now, however, Salisu is taking time to reconnect with his roots, inspire younger players, and honor leaders like President Mahama — a move that has earned him praise beyond the football pitch.
“Giving back and staying grounded is important to me,” he shared.
“No matter where football takes me, Ghana is always home.”
