Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu secured his place in football history on 16 October 2009 by converting the decisive penalty kick in the FIFA U-20 World Cup final against Brazil. This moment marked the first time an African nation claimed the youth title, establishing the midfielder as a key figure within the national team structures of Ghana.
Domestic Foundations and Early Development
Born in Berekum on 2 December 1990, Agyemang-Badu began his professional path at Berlin F.C. before joining Berekum Arsenal. His local progress earned him a spot in the Ghana Premier League All Star Team in May 2007. By 2008, he moved to Asante Kotoko on a one-year loan. He also pursued European trials with Middlesbrough and Wolverhampton Wanderers during this period, ultimately signing a temporary contract with the Spanish club Recreativo de Huelva in 2009.
Tenure at Udinese Calcio
In January 2010, the Italian Serie A side Udinese finalized his permanent transfer from Berlin F.C. His Serie A debut occurred on 28 March 2010 against Fiorentina. Over the next decade, he became an essential component of the Udine-based squad, notably adapting to the 4-1-4-1 and 4-4-1-1 tactical formations. His tenure at the club included 193 appearances, 10 goals, and 11 assists. During this lengthy period, he also undertook a loan spell at the Turkish club Bursaspor for the 2017-18 season.
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Agyemang-Badu joined Hellas Verona on loan in July 2019, an agreement that included an obligation to purchase his contract. Following a medical challenge involving blood clots on his lungs, he returned to competition in December 2019. After completing 10 matches, the club finalized his signing on a two-year deal. However, he terminated this contract in January 2021 and officially retired from professional football.
Return to the Ghana Premier League
In July 2022, he resumed his playing career by signing a one-year contract with the Accra Great Olympics. His return featured 11 league matches and two Man of the Match honors. During his tenure, the club achieved success in the GHALCA G6 tournament, defeating Bechem United 2-0 in the final. He departed the organization after five months.
International Representation
His senior international career with the Black Stars began on 8 June 2008 against Lesotho. He earned 78 caps throughout his career, participating in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including runner-up finishes in 2010 and 2015. His performance during the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, specifically a mid-air volley against Guinea, resulted in a nomination for the FIFA Puskás Award.
Fast facts
- Born: 2 December 1990, Berekum, Ghana
- Professional Debut: 2007
- Senior International Caps: 78
- Key Trophy: 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup
- Primary Position: Midfielder
- Udinese Appearances: 193
- Languages Spoken: English, Twi, Koulango
- Retirement Date: 2 January 2021
Questions readers ask
Which major trophy did he win with the Ghana U-20 team?
He was part of the squad that won the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2009 African Youth Championship.
How long was his professional career at Udinese?
He played for the club for 10 years, appearing in 193 matches across all competitions.
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