Forgotten Hero:
32 years ago, Ali Jarra gave everything for Ghana.
Today, the former Black Stars goalkeeper says the state has abandoned him after a career-ending injury.
Should Ghana do more for its forgotten football heroes?
#NEOReport #BlackStars #AliJarra #GhanaFootball
Former Black Stars goalkeeper Ali Jarra has voiced his pain and disappointment over what he describes as decades of neglect by the state, 32 years after a career-ending injury sustained while serving the nation.
In a heartfelt Facebook post on July 29, 2025, Jarra recalled the injury that abruptly ended his football career, lamenting that despite his sacrifices and service to Ghana, he has received little to no support.
“All I ever wanted was acknowledgment, justice, and a sign that my sacrifice mattered. Instead, I have been met with neglect and indifference,” he wrote.
Jarra called on the government and football authorities to finally recognize his contributions and offer support, adding that he hopes his story will spark change for other forgotten heroes.
The former shot-stopper was a gold medalist at the 1991 U17 tournament in Italy, a silver medalist at the 1993 U20 World Cup in Australia, and a gold medalist at the 1993 Mauritius African Cup. He also earned silver at the 1993 World Cup in Japan making him one of Ghana’s most decorated youth goalkeepers.
Yet, despite his achievements, Jarra says he has borne the burden of his injury alone.
“It has been 32 long years since the day that changed my life forever. Throughout these decades, I have carried the weight of that day the pain, the sacrifice, and the silence. Yet, despite everything, the state has turned its back, leaving me forgotten and unheard.”
The story of Ali Jarra is a somber reminder of how some of Ghana’s national heroes fade into the shadows once the cheers stop raising serious questions about player welfare and support systems for retired athletes.
