Emmanuel Nettey, a former Hearts of Oak midfielder, has confessed to secretly recording a conversation with a club board member and has shared his reasons for doing so.
The confession sheds light on the behind-the-scenes tensions that often go unnoticed in Ghanaian football, especially when players part ways with top-tier clubs.
Eammnanuel Nettey’s Exit from Hearts of Oak
In 2022, Nettey left Hearts of Oak to join Iraqi side Duhok SC after a memorable stint with the Accra-based giants. However, his departure was quickly followed by speculation about his conduct and demands during contract negotiations.
According to Nettey, misinformation was being spread, particularly regarding the financial terms he allegedly demanded from the club.
“A friend of mine sent me a voice note on what one of the Hearts of Oak board members said — that I was asking for an outrageous amount,” Nettey revealed in an interview with 3Sports on WarmUp Plus.
This prompted him to take preemptive action.
"Considering the way I left Hearts of Oak, it was really painful."
Former Hearts of Oak player Emmanuel Nettey recounts how he left the club.#3Sports #WarmUpPlus pic.twitter.com/J57LLWitna
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) July 27, 2025
Nettey Explains the Secret ReAMecording
Foreseeing the potential damage to his reputation, the former Ghana Premier League star made the decision to secretly record a conversation with the board member in question.
“I recorded the convo I had with the board member without his knowledge because I know this is what they do. They are going to paint you black to the supporters and then they are going to come at you,” he stated.
His goal wasn’t to expose anyone publicly, but rather to have undeniable proof should the need arise. The recording, according to Nettey, was a form of protection against character assassination.
Choosing Peace Over Public Drama
Despite having damning evidence in hand, Nettey chose not to retaliate.
“I said no. I came to the club without any qualms so I don’t want to leave with a stain on my shirt. Let me leave peacefully,” he said, reflecting a mature stance in the face of controversy.
He sent the recording to a passionate Hearts of Oak supporter who was prepared to speak up on his behalf, but urged restraint to avoid further conflict. Nettey emphasized that his decision to not escalate the matter came from a desire to part ways with dignity, rather than fan the flames of controversy.
Current Career and Legacy
Emmanuel Nettey now plays for Sohar SC in Oman, continuing a career that once made him one of the most admired midfielders in the Ghana Premier League. His time at Hearts of Oak saw him win over many fans with his tenacity and vision on the field.
While the saga surrounding his exit from the club adds a complex chapter to his story, Nettey’s actions highlight the challenges professional athletes often face off the pitch. His resolve to protect his name — while choosing not to engage in public feuds — underscores a professionalism that many consider rare in football circles.
In a world where reputations can be easily tarnished by rumour and innuendo, Emmanuel Nettey’s quiet strength and foresight offer a valuable lesson in handling internal disputes. His confession of recording a board member may be controversial, but for Nettey, it was a necessary step in preserving the integrity he worked so hard to build.
In other news, Ghana Sports Market reported extensively on Asante Kotoko’s Toyota Cup triumph against Kaier Chiefs last Saturday.
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