Salim Adams should have been named Best Local Player over Benjamin Asare – George Afriyie

Former GFA vice-president George Afriyie has raised concerns over the selection of Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare as the best locally based player for Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. During the GFA's 32nd Ordinary Congress, Kurt Okraku, the GFA president, announced the award and Asare was set to receive a JAC Motors vehicle valued at $38,000 in recognition of his contribution.

Former GFA vice-president Afriyie believes Salim Adams, a midfielder from Medeama, would have been a more deserving recipient. Afriyie pointed out that Adams played a crucial role in Medeama's title-winning season and had more league appearances, goals, and recognitions such as MVP for eight matches compared to Asare. Afriyie's comments come with the concern that the financial disparity between Black Stars players and those in the domestic league might hinder talent retention in Ghana and make the Premier League less competitive.

Afriyie also highlighted Medeama's current predicament where one of their key players has moved to a Sudanese club and could face them in continental competition, further questioning the excitement of the Ghanaian league.