AFCON U20: Ghanaian Billionaire Ibrahim Mahama’s Son Michael Amer Joins Black Satellites

• The son of billionaire business mogul Ibrahim Mahama has been named in Ghana's U20 squad for a major competition
• The youngster and a host of budding talents have been included in the Black Satellites team for the U20 AFCON in Egypt
• Ghana has been drawn in Group C alongside the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Senegal

Ibrahim Mahama's son, Michael Amer, has been named in Ghana's final squad for the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, which starts next week in host country Egypt (April 27 to May 18).

The midfielder's inclusion in coach Desmond Offei’s team marks a significant milestone in a journey fuelled by ambition, skill, and a desire to carve his path in football.

Ibrahim Mahama's son gets Ghana call-up

The youngster, who plies his trade with Tema-based Nice Ibrahim Sporting Club, emerged as one of the standout performers during the final phase of intensive preparations at the Accra Sports Stadium.

His blend of vision, close control, and progressive playmaking appears to have left a lasting impression on the Black Satellites' technical handlers ahead of the U20 AFCON this year, per details by CAF.

Having previously missed out on the limelight, Amer now joins a motivated group of players who etched their names in Ghanaian sporting history by clinching gold at the 2023 African Games last year.

With momentum on their side and continental success within reach, the team is eyeing a fourth U20 AFCON title and a coveted spot at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile from September 27 to October 19 this year.

Michael Amer moves out of father's shadow

Despite being born into privilege - with his father’s ventures spanning industries from mining to agribusiness - Michael has chosen a path defined not by inheritance but by merit.

His football ambitions mirror a personal commitment to excellence, especially in a domain where his cousin, Sharaf Mahama, son of the sitting President John Mahama, once tried but struggled to make an impact before transitioning into player management.

Ghanaians react to Michael Amer's call-up

This call-up, while celebrated by some, has also sparked mixed reactions among fans on social media.

@fawogyimiiko_ admired his football persona, writing:

"From his face u could tell he’s a certified baller."

@YawOwusu787695 injected a dose of scepticism with a touch of humour:

"Family and friends. Ɛda mu 🤣🤣🤣🤣"

@BossPryme applauded the decision to step out of his father’s shadow:

"Great choice not playing with the Mahama name🔥🔥🔥"

@Brawakiki defended the selection, asserting:

"Make no body lie you, the guy dey ball ruff if you have seen him play before."

@fubudarling offered a broader take:

"Parents should allow their kids to follow their passions and I like this from Ibrahim Mahama."

Ultimately, the pressure has shifted to Amer to silence doubters and prove that his selection was based on footballing substance, not family prestige.

His inclusion may come with added scrutiny, given his father's status, but could also present the perfect stage to showcase his genuine talent.

Michael Amer's profile and position

Michael Amer plays as a central midfielder and is known for his vision, close control, and playmaking abilities.

Plying his trade at Tema-based Nice Ibrahim Sporting Club, a team affiliated with his father's business ventures, Amer honed his skills and demonstrated leadership on the field.

His inclusion in the national squad underscores his potential and the technical team's confidence in his abilities.

Ghana chase U20 AFCON glory

YEN.com.gh also reported that Ghana's Black Satellites have been placed in Group C for the U20 AFCON.

Coach Offei's side has been drawn in the same group alongside the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Senegal.

The 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is scheduled to take place in Egypt from April 27 to May 18, 2025.

This tournament serves as a big platform for young African talents to showcase their skills on an international stage.

Also, the top four teams will qualify for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile which makes the tournament a vital pathway for players aspiring to reach the global arena.

Nomso Obiajuru was a contributing writer in this article

Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.

Source: YEN.com.gh