Kurt Okraku
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has dismissed as false allegations that it demands money from players in exchange for national team call-ups, describing the claims as malicious and aimed at damaging its reputation.
In a statement, the GFA specifically denied reports attributed to a supposed relative of Black Stars forward, Prince Owusu.
The claim alleged that the player was asked to pay a percentage of his potential FIFA World Cup earnings to secure a place in the national team.
The Association said the allegation was “entirely fabricated.”
The GFA clarified that player selection for all national teams rests solely with the respective head coaches, and not with the Association’s leadership or any of its officials.
It also stated that all financial entitlements for national team players, including appearance fees and match bonuses, are paid directly by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation into players’ individual bank accounts.
The Association said it plays no role in handling those funds.
According to the GFA, both FIFA and GFA ethics codes strictly prohibit bribery, extortion and any form of financial misconduct.
It warned that such violations attract severe disciplinary sanctions and could lead to criminal prosecution.
The Association urged the public to verify information before sharing it online, noting that misinformation has increased following the Black Stars’ exit from the World Cup.
It challenged those behind the claims to provide credible evidence, including the identities of those allegedly involved and details of any payments made.
The GFA further disclosed that its legal team is reviewing the matter and will pursue legal action against individuals and platforms found to be spreading the “baseless claims.”
By Wletsu Ransford