Ghanaian Legend Muntari Offers Advice to Four Out-of-Contract Players

Former Ghana midfielder Suleyman Ali Muntari has offered advice to four big-name stars who will be out of contract at the end of the season on June 30th.

In an exclusive interview with The Nerve Africa, the 40-year-old spoke about the contract situations of compatriots Thomas Partey, Tariq Lamptey, Emmanuel Gyasi, and Ghana national team (Black Stars) captain Andre Dede Ayew.

Thomas Partey

Partey’s contract at Arsenal expires on June 30th, and there has been no clear effort from the Gunners to offer him a new deal. The 31-year-old has been a consistent performer, especially this season, with Mikel Arteta deploying him both in midfield and at right-back on several occasions.

“For me, it’s a no-brainer that he (Partey) has been one of the best players at Arsenal this season. They need him, and they should be offering him a new contract. If they won’t give him a new deal, he still has years at the top level, and for me, I wouldn’t rule out a return to Atlético Madrid,” said the former Inter Milan player.

Related article: Will Partey Stay in London? Salary and Prospects of the Ghanaian Midfielder

Tariq Lamptey

On Lamptey and his future at Brighton, Muntari was hesitant to advise him to stay, instead suggesting he seek a move to a team that would guarantee him more playing time.

“Look, I don’t want to be misinterpreted, but I think Tariq isn’t playing enough at Brighton. His abilities on the ball and the versatility he possesses make him an absolute asset. I think he should find a team outside England—perhaps Ajax in the Netherlands, or one in France or Spain. The football there suits his style, and he still has age on his side.”

Andre Ayew

Meanwhile, Muntari is convinced his former teammate Ayew can still compete in one of Europe’s top-five leagues and advised Le Havre to offer him a fresh contract. The 35-year-old has scored four goals and provided one assist in 20 games this season.

“It’s simple—his age has nothing to do with his potential. If they need his big performances, experience, and leadership, then Le Havre have to tie him to a new contract. He’s achieved a lot and earned respect, so if you ask me, he should stay there for at least another season. But it will also depend on what he wants for his future.”

Related article: Andre Ayew Returns to France — Salary and Prospects of the Ghanaian Captain

Emmanuel Gyasi

Gyasi has been consistent during his nearly two seasons at Italian Serie A side Empoli, making 67 appearances since 2023. Muntari believes Empoli will need his experience beyond this season, especially if he helps them avoid relegation.

“Empoli will definitely want him to stay beyond the season, especially if they remain in the league. Honestly, I would advise him to seek a new team in Serie A if his current side gets relegated—for the sake of his career. He’s still good enough for top-flight football in the best leagues,” Muntari added.