Ghana Premier League is failing to produce players capable of playing for Black Stars – George Afriyie

Former Ghana Football Association vice-president George Afriyie has expressed concerns about the Ghana Premier League's capability to develop players suitable for the national team, the Black Stars. Speaking on Ahenfie FM, Afriyie cited an international assignment where Ghana invited approximately 24 players, but 23 were based abroad and nine withdrew.

He questioned why the technical team couldn't find a suitable local replacement from the domestic league. Afriyie argued that this situation raises doubts about the quality of player development in Ghana and the Ghana Premier League's ability to prepare players for the national team. He also criticized the standard of the 18-team league, pointing to established clubs like Hearts of Oak, Asante Kotoko, Bibiani Gold Stars, and FC Samartex.

Afriyie suggested that the league's inability to provide a replacement for the withdrawn players indicates a weak foundation for Ghanaian football. He attributed the issue to weaknesses in youth development and domestic league administration, advocating for a stronger foundation to produce more players capable of competing internationally.

Afriyie further criticized the lack of genuine competition in the domestic league, questioning whether the current state of Ghanaian football can lead to meaningful progress. He emphasized that a more competitive Ghana Premier League, supported by an effective youth development system, would enhance the pool of players available to the Black Stars and improve the national team's options during times of injury or withdrawal.