Elisha Owusu says wearing the captain’s armband for French side AJ Auxerre this season is one of the proudest moments of his career.
The Ghanaian international, who joined Auxerre in January 2023, has stepped up as stand-in skipper on three occasions during the current campaign, guiding the team through crucial Ligue 1 fixtures in the absence of senior players.
“Captaining Auxerre is a dream come true,” Owusu told reporters. “It’s a huge responsibility, but also a huge honour. This club has a lot of history, and every time I lead the boys out, I feel that weight and pride.”

The 27-year-old has become a key figure in the heart of Auxerre’s midfield, known for his calm presence on the ball, tough tackling, and leadership qualities. After battling relegation fears for much of the season, the club secured safety with games to spare; a major relief for Owusu and his teammates.
“Our main focus was survival,” he said. “Ligue 1 is unforgiving, but we kept believing and now we can aim to finish on a strong note. The unity in the dressing room made the difference.”

Owusu has made 26 league appearances this term, contributing a goal and three assists. His growing influence in the team hasn’t gone unnoticed by fans and pundits alike, with many praising his maturity and consistency.
Auxerre will look to build on their recent form when they host FC Nantes at the Stade de l’Abbé Deschamps tonight, with kickoff set for 19:00 GMT. For Owusu, it’s another chance to lead by example and possibly wear the armband once more.