West Ham United midfielder Mohammed Kudus has been recognised for his incredible solo goal against Freiburg in the Europa League last season, earning a nomination for the prestigious FIFA Puskás Award.
The Ghanaian international’s strike, which showcased his pace, skill, and composure in front of goal, has caught the attention of the football world, and he is now in contention for one of the most coveted individual honors in the sport.
“I’m absolutely delighted for Mohammed,” said West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui. “His goal against Freiburg was an incredible individual effort, and it’s no surprise that it’s been recognised with a FIFA Puskás Award nomination.”
Kudus’s goal was a moment of individual brilliance that left the Freiburg defenders in his wake. The 22-year-old midfielder picked up the ball in his own half and embarked on a mazy run that showcased his pace, skill, and determination.
“It was an incredible feeling, scoring that goal,” said Kudus. “I just wanted to take on the defenders and see what happened. Luckily, it paid off, and I was able to score a great goal for the team.”
Rio Ferdinand, the former Manchester United defender, was full of praise for Kudus’s effort, saying that he fully deserves his nomination for the FIFA Puskás Award.
“What a goal! Mohammed Kudus’s strike against Freiburg was an absolute screamer,” said Ferdinand. “He deserves this nomination for the FIFA Puskás Award. The way he picked up the ball, beat several defenders, and slotted it past the goalkeeper was pure class.”
Ferdinand, who won numerous honors during his playing career, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League medal, knows what it takes to score great goals. And he believes Kudus’s effort against Freiburg is one of the best he’s seen in recent years.
“I’ve seen some great goals in my time, but Kudus’s strike against Freiburg was something special,” said Ferdinand. “He’s got a great chance of winning the FIFA Puskás Award, and I think he’d be a deserving winner.”
Kudus’s nomination for the FIFA Puskás Award is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. The Ghanaian international has been in impressive form for both club and country, and his goal against Freiburg is widely regarded as one of the best of the season.
“I’m just grateful to have been nominated for this award,” said Kudus. “It’s an incredible honor to be recognised in this way, and I’m just proud to have been able to contribute to the team’s success.”
The winner of the FIFA Puskás Award will be announced in the coming weeks, and Kudus will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of previous winners, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Olivier Giroud.
“I’m just going to enjoy the moment and see what happens,” said Kudus. “It’s an incredible feeling to be nominated for this award, and I’m just grateful to have been recognised in this way.”
