Asante Kotoko SC, one of Ghana’s premier football clubs, was thrown into turmoil recently when two of its key players, Esmat Abdulhamid and Abdulkarim, unexpectedly disappeared. The incident took place during the team’s stay in the United States, where they were preparing for a high-profile friendly match against DC United. The sudden absence of these players led to confusion, concern, and a scramble to locate them as quickly as possible.
Kotoko had been preparing intensively for their match against DC United, a game that was seen as a golden opportunity to showcase the team’s talent on an international stage. The players had been lodged at a hotel in Washington, D.C., to focus on the final stages of their preparation.
However, just days before the match, it was discovered that Esmat Abdulhamid and Abdulkarim had left the team’s hotel without notifying any of the coaching staff or management. Their abrupt disappearance caught everyone off guard, especially as both players had been in good form during training sessions and were expected to play crucial roles in the game.
Rumors quickly began to circulate about why the players had left. Some speculated that the players might have had issues related to their contracts, while others wondered if they had sought to meet with representatives from other clubs in the U.S., possibly to discuss a potential transfer. Despite these speculations, the club remained focused on finding them, launching an immediate search effort in coordination with local authorities and the Ghanaian consulate in the U.S.
Fans back in Ghana were understandably anxious, with many taking to social media to express their concern and confusion over the disappearance of the two players. The pressure mounted as the club sought answers.
After days of uncertainty, it has now been confirmed that both Esmat Abdulhamid and Abdulkarim have been located. The players were found in [specific location to be confirmed], a region not far from the team’s hotel. According to reports, they had left the premises without permission and did not inform the club of their whereabouts, leading to speculation about their intentions.
While the players are now safe, the exact reasons for their disappearance remain unclear. Club officials have indicated that they will be investigating the matter further to determine the motivations behind the players’ actions and whether any disciplinary measures will be taken.
Asante Kotoko has expressed relief that the players were found safe and unharmed but emphasized that such incidents are damaging to team morale and focus, especially ahead of such important international fixtures. It is unclear whether Abdulhamid and Abdulkarim will face sanctions or whether they will be included in future lineups, but the club’s management has promised to handle the situation with fairness and professionalism.
Fans will be watching closely as the club continues to navigate this challenging situation, with the hope that both players can reintegrate into the team and contribute to Kotoko’s future successes.
