Ghana FA denies claims it takes money from Black Stars players

By Jamaldeen Wiayuka July 7, 2026

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has strongly denied allegations that it demands money from Black Stars players in exchange for national team selection.

The claims, which have circulated on social media and other online platforms, include an allegation linked to a relative of footballer Prince Owusu. The post claimed that the player had been asked to give the GFA a percentage of any earnings connected to a potential Black Stars call-up for the World Cup.

In a statement, the GFA described the allegations as “false and malicious” and said they had been fabricated to damage the reputation of the association 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,” the statement said.

The association said decisions on player call-ups are made solely by the head coach, not by GFA leaders or individual members of the association.

It also said payments to players, including match bonuses, appearance fees and win bonuses, are handled directly by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and paid into players’ individual bank accounts.

The GFA said it does not manage or act as an intermediary in those payments.

The association pointed to FIFA and GFA ethics rules, which prohibit bribery, extortion and other forms of financial misconduct. It said any official found demanding money from a player could face serious sanctions, including a ban and possible criminal prosecution.

The statement comes after Ghana’s recent exit from the 2026 World Cup competition, which the GFA said had led to a rise in misinformation and “malicious stories” online.

The association challenged those making the allegations to identify the officials involved and provide evidence of when money was allegedly requested or paid.

“The GFA operates with the highest standards of integrity and has zero tolerance for corruption or extortion,” it said.

The GFA said its legal team was reviewing the allegations and that it could take action against individuals and platforms found to be responsible for spreading false claims.

It added that it would not comment further unless necessary.