Former Ghana international Daniel Opare says a career plagued by injuries prevented him from reaching his full potential as a footballer after a bright start to his career.
The former Royal Antwerp defender was once considered one of the brightest young prospects in world football, but recurring fitness setbacks disrupted what could have been an even more successful career.
Speaking to JoySports, Opare admitted injuries remain his biggest regret.
“It is not easy to get to that level, so [I am thankful],” he said.
“I regretted a little bit because of the injuries, because I could have fulfilled my potential.
“Personally, my potential was not fully fulfilled [because of injuries], that was my only regret,” Opare added.
Opare’s injury troubles began early on the international stage. Named in Ghana’s provisional squad for the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, he was forced to withdraw after suffering an ankle injury during pre-tournament preparations in Dubai.
Years later, he was tipped to become Ghana’s first-choice right-back ahead of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, but another injury ruled him out just weeks before the competition, allowing Harrison Afful to cement the role.
At club level, Opare enjoyed one of his most stable spells with Standard Liège after joining the side in 2010 from Real Madrid Castilla.
His strong performances earned him a move to FC Porto in 2014 ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, but injuries once again hampered his progress.
Later spells with FC Augsburg, RC Lens and Beşiktaş JK were also affected by fitness issues, limiting his appearances between 2015 and 2017.
