Richard AkonnorRichard Akonnor is a professional football player who plays as a left back for Al Jazira and the United Arab Emirates national team, Born in Ghana, he represents United Arab Emirates at international level.Club careerAkonnor began his training with Liberty Professionals in Ghana before completing it at Al Jazira in the United Arab Emirates. There, he also signed his first professional contract, playing in the UAE Pro League.International careerIn 2025, Akonnor obtained Emirati citizenship and was selected to join United Arab Emirates U23. Later that same year, he was called up to the United Arab Emirates to participate in 2025 FIFA Arab Cup. In the competition's quarter-finals against Algeria, he converted the decisive spot kick in a 7–6 penalty shootout victory, sending his nation into the semi-finals.Personal lifeHe converted to Islam in 2022.