Exclusive: "I Needed Enough Playing Time to Develop My Potentials," Says Former MSK Zilina Prodigy Ivan Anokye Mensah

Former Inter Allies playmaker Ivan Anokye Mensah has reflected on his growth in the Nike liga, where he has transitioned from a slow starter to a regular player for MFK Dukla Banska Bystrica.

Mensah cites his desire for increased playing time as the reason for his departure from MSK Zilina. Since then, he has concentrated on self-development, patiently awaiting a call-up to the national team.

Interestingly, many promising careers have been cut short due to ill-fated transfer decisions. Even some of the world's most explosive talents, tipped for greatness, have fizzled out as a result of a single misstep in choosing their next career destination.

Former U-20 Africa Cup of Nations winner, Mensah, was deeply contemplative about these pitfalls before making his move to MFK Dukla Banska Bystrica from MSK Zilina. As a promising young player, he knew that playing time and adapting to the team's culture would be crucial factors in his decision.

Fortunately, after a few months in Banska Bystrica, Mensah tells UK's SportsBoom.com from Slovakia, that joining the club has been the best decision of his career so far. Having signed permanently after his loan duration expired, the 20-year-old also shares his thoughts on the Black Stars.

UNWANTED PERIOD

Most athletes face dark periods in their career, but what sets them apart is how they navigate those challenging times. For Mensah, this period of struggle prompted sincere introspection.

His goal was to swiftly adjust to the pace of the Slovak First League and assimilate into the team's culture. According to Mensah, this focused effort has paid off, yielding positive results.

"I'd be lying if I said the transition to the Slovak First League was seamless. The initial period was tough, but I remained optimistic about the future. Adapting to the local culture and team dynamic was always going to be a challenge. However, I'm thrilled to have adjusted quickly and I'm really enjoying my time in Banska Bystrica.

"I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Coach Marek Bazik and my teammates for their patience and guidance. They've helped me settle in, and I'm now fully focused on contributing to the team's success." he explained.

HEALTHY RIVALRY

The recent signing of Ghanaian midfielder Mensah has proven to be a shrewd move by Coach Marek Bazik, providing a significant boost to the team's defensive line. Mensah's arrival has not only strengthened the team's defense but has also injected a renewed sense of competition within the squad.

According to Mensah, the healthy competition among teammates is essential for driving the club's success. The skilled midfielder believes that the rivalry for starting positions will push players to raise their game, ultimately benefiting the team.

"I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to play in several games, and I'm confident that I'm on the right track. Coach believes I can meet his expectations, and that's a great motivator. I'm savoring the experience and focused on improving my game time.

"I also appreciate the healthy competition within the team. Every colleague is capable of starting matches, but ultimately, the decision rests with the coach. My approach is to keep working hard and hope to earn sufficient playing time."

NON-NEGOTIABLE GAME TIME  

"I didn't leave MSK Zilina for any major reason, but I was eager to secure more playing time. As any player knows, game time is crucial for our careers. While I cherished my time at MSK Zilina, I'm excited to be here at SNP Stadium." Mensah explained.

"My performance was suffering due to a lack of game time. Now that I have the opportunity, I'm grasping it with both hands."

"My current focus is on delivering my best performances to help the team finish within the top four, thereby enhancing our chances of competing in European campaigns."

Prior to joining 'The Soldiers' on a permanent basis, Mensah was already familiar to the fans, having played a few matches to conclude the 2023/24 season. During that stint, he made ten appearances, coming off the bench twice.

NOT IN A HASTE TO PLAY FOR BLACK STARS

Representing the Black Stars at major tournaments will always remain a top priority for most top  players and Ivan Anokye Mensah is of no exception.

However, The 2021 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Gold Medalist believes one needs to be adequately prepared and ready since the demands can be cumbersome of hoisting the flag of the four time African Champions in Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA Sanctioned tournaments.

"It's a very tricky question, but at the moment I just want to focus on developing myself first,  because without it l don't think any national team invitation will be forth.

"It's my duty to ensure  I'm at that level. The national team will always be there for every Ghanaian player, and it's up to us to prove why we should be called. It's very unfortunate we couldn't qualify for the African Cup of Nations but it's part of the game and l know the Black Stars will shine again"  the MFK Dukla Banska Bystric asserted.

" Playing for the Black Stars is not a competition, but a privilege. I shall wait for my turn, but for now, I'm focused on self-development."