Samuel Boadu Claims Departure from Hearts of Oak Was About Peace, Not Poor Performance
Former Hearts of Oak coach Samuel Boadu has opened up about his controversial exit from the club, insisting that it was more about ensuring peace for Board Chairman Togbe Afede XIV than a matter of poor performance. Boadu, who ended an 11-year trophy drought by leading Hearts to five titles in just 18 months, left the club with a proud record despite a disappointing run that saw just one win in nine league matches.
In an interview on The BKB Show with Kankam Boadu, Boadu detailed the deep bond he shared with Togbe Afede XIV. “I often mentioned Togbe’s name after matches, and many didn’t understand why. He’s more like a father and brother to me. His guidance went beyond football; he advised me on personal matters too. Togbe is a good man. If it were just him at Hearts, I would have stayed for 50 years,” Boadu said, emphasizing the emotional connection that made his decision to leave even more complex.
Boadu firmly dismissed the notion that his departure was solely due to poor results, stating, “Some say I left because of performance, but I disagree. A coach who doesn’t win trophies can be labeled underperforming. I won the league, the FA Cup, and qualified the team for Africa during my time despite all the challenges and sleepless nights.” His achievements during his tenure speak volumes, yet the pressure of recent performances weighed heavily on his position.
He admitted, however, that internal issues contributed to his decision to step down. “Honestly, I can’t fully explain why I left. Maybe the bad run influenced some opinions, but even then, I had just won the FA Cup. Some members of management didn’t appreciate what I achieved. It became a heavy burden. So, to allow peace for Togbe and the club, I decided to step aside.” This statement raises questions about the internal dynamics at Hearts of Oak and whether management truly valued his contributions.
Despite his exit, Boadu believes his legacy at Hearts of Oak will endure. “No one can erase what I did for Hearts. I left with a smile because the weight was too heavy to carry. I made my peace with it,” he asserted, showcasing a sense of pride in his accomplishments.
Now at the helm of Berekum Chelsea, Boadu has guided the team to the semi-finals of the FA Cup, demonstrating that his coaching prowess remains intact. His departure from Hearts of Oak has sparked discussions among fans and pundits alike, with many questioning the club’s management decisions and the pressures faced by coaches in top-tier football.
