The Ghana Football Association has taken note of recent false and malicious allegations circulating on social media and certain online platforms claiming that the GFA takes money from players. A case in point is an allegation purportedly made by a “purported” relative of Prince Owusu that he was asked to cede a percentage of his potential earnings from a Black Stars call-up to the World Cup to the GFA.
We categorically and unequivocally DENY these claims in their entirety. These reports are 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.
For the avoidance of doubt:
- 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.
- All financial dealings and payments to players are handled directly by the Ministry of Sports. Players’ payments (match bonuses, appearance fees, win bonuses, etc.) are transferred straight to their individual bank accounts with full documentation and transparency. The GFA does not handle or intermediate these payments.
- The GFA and FIFA have very clear and strict rules against extortion, bribery, and any form of financial impropriety. Both the FIFA Code of Ethics and the GFA Code of Ethics, as well as other GFA governance regulations, explicitly prohibit any official or administrator from demanding or receiving money from players. Any such act constitutes a serious offence and attracts severe sanctions, including bans and possible criminal prosecution. The GFA remains fully compliant with these rules.
- The GFA urges all Ghanaians to carefully and consciously consume information about the GFA on the internet. The recent exit of the Black Stars has sadly triggered a wave of misinformation, fake news, and malicious stories aimed at creating unnecessary tension and division. Let us all be responsible and verify facts before sharing.
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. It is only fair that you make your claims with evidence instead of hiding behind anonymous posts.
The GFA operates with the highest standards of integrity and has zero tolerance for corruption or extortion. Our focus remains on the development of Ghanaian football and the welfare of our players.
We urge the media, fans, and the general public to disregard these baseless stories and rely solely on official communications from the GFA or the Ministry of Sports and Recreation.
The GFA and our legal team are currently reviewing all these false allegations and will take legal action against individuals and platforms responsible.
The Association will not be making further comments on this matter until it deems it necessary to do so. Thank you for your continued support and trust in the GFA.
GFA COMMUNICATIONS
