The Ghana Football Association has strongly denied allegations circulating on social media that it demands money from players in exchange for national team call-ups, describing the claims as “false and malicious.”
The Association said it had taken notice of reports alleging that a relative of Prince Owusu claimed the player had been asked to surrender a percentage of his potential earnings from a Black Stars call-up to the World Cup.
In a statement dated Tuesday, July 7, the GFA dismissed the allegations outright.
“We categorically and unequivocally DENY these claims in their entirety,” the Association stated.
According to the GFA, the reports were “completely fabricated and intended to tarnish the image of the GFA and Ghanaian football.”
“The GFA does not demand, solicit, or collect any money from players for selection into national teams or for any other purpose,” it added.
The Association clarified that the selection of players into national teams is solely the responsibility of the head coach and not the leadership of the football governing body.
“The GFA leadership does not invite players into any of our national teams. This responsibility does not lie with the leadership, nor with any individual member of the Association. It lies exclusively with the Head Coach of the team,” the statement said.
The GFA further explained that payments to players are managed directly by the Ministry responsible for sports and not by the Association itself.
The Association also pointed to the ethical standards governing football administration, noting that both the GFA and FIFA have strict regulations prohibiting corruption and extortion.
“The GFA and FIFA have very clear and strict rules against extortion, bribery, and any form of financial impropriety,” the statement noted, adding that any official found engaging in such conduct would face severe sanctions, including bans and possible criminal prosecution.
The football governing body urged Ghanaians to verify information before sharing it, arguing that the recent exit of the Black Stars had sparked a wave of misinformation.
The GFA also challenged individuals making the allegations to provide evidence to support their claims.
“To those spreading these allegations, we challenge you to boldly come out and state clearly who exactly you dealt with at the GFA, how much was allegedly paid or demanded, when it was paid, and for what purpose,” the Association said.
The Association reiterated its commitment to transparency and integrity in the administration of football in Ghana.
The GFA disclosed that its legal team is reviewing the allegations and indicated that legal action would be taken against individuals and platforms responsible for spreading the claims.
The Association added that it would not comment further on the issue unless it deemed it necessary.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
