By Simon Asare, GNA
Accra, July 8, GNA – The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has denied allegations circulating on social media that it demands or collects money from players in exchange for selection into the country’s national football teams.
In a statement, the local football governing body described the claims as “false and malicious” and said they were intended to damage the reputation of the association and Ghanaian football.
The GFA was responding to allegations, including one attributed to a “purported” relative of Ghana international Prince Owusu, claiming the player was asked to surrender a percentage of his potential earnings from a Black Stars call-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“We categorically and unequivocally deny these claims in their entirety,” the GFA said, adding that it “does not demand, solicit, or collect any money from players for selection into national teams or for any other purpose.”
The association said the selection of players for Ghana’s national teams is the sole responsibility of the respective head coaches and not the GFA’s leadership or any individual member of the association.
It also stated that all payments due to players, including match bonuses, appearance fees and win bonuses, are handled directly by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and transferred to players’ individual bank accounts.
According to the GFA, neither it nor its officials serve as intermediaries in the payment process.
The association further said its operations are governed by the FIFA Code of Ethics, the GFA Code of Ethics and other governance regulations, which prohibit extortion, bribery and other forms of financial impropriety. It noted that any official found guilty of such conduct would face sanctions, including possible bans and criminal prosecution.
The GFA urged the public to verify information before sharing it, saying the Black Stars’ recent exit from competition had led to a surge in misinformation and false reports targeting the association.
It also challenged those making the allegations to provide evidence, including the identities of individuals allegedly involved, the amounts demanded or paid, and the circumstances surrounding the claims.
“The GFA operates with the highest standards of integrity and has zero tolerance for corruption or extortion,” the statement said.
The association said its legal team is reviewing the allegations and that legal action would be taken against individuals and platforms responsible for publishing false claims.
The GFA added that it would not make any further comments on the matter unless it considered it necessary.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Simon Asare