GFA denies claims players paid money for Black Stars call-ups, threatens legal action

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has dismissed allegations that players are required to pay money before receiving a call-up to the Black Stars, describing the claims as false and malicious.

In a statement, the association denied reports circulating on social media that it collects money from players in exchange for places in Ghana's national teams.

The response follows claims, including one allegedly made by a relative of Black Stars forward Prince Owusu, that the player was asked to give up part of his expected earnings from Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in exchange for his selection.

The GFA said the allegations are completely false and are aimed at damaging the reputation of the association and Ghanaian football.

"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."

The Football Association clarified that its leadership does not select players for any national team.

According to the GFA, invitations to the Black Stars and other national teams are made solely by the head coach based on technical and sporting considerations.

READ MORE: Messi makes World Cup history as Argentina completes stunning comeback against Egypt

"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 excluleadership noread Coach of the team."

The head coach explained that exclusively with the head coach Black Stars players.

It said all match bonuses, appearance fees and other player payments are processed directly by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and transferred into players' individual bank accounts.

"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 Association stressed that FIFA and the GFA have strict rules against corruption, bribery and extortion.

It said any official found demanding or receiving money from players would face severe disciplinary sanctions, including possible bans and criminal prosecution.

"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 other GFA governance regulations explicitly prohibit any official or administrator from demanding or reEthics,,,,,well asll asl asl asfrom players."

READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup dream ends as Spain beat Portugal to reach quarter-finals

The regulations' association called on anyone making the allegations to prreceivingce of as fromy from him.

It urged those behind the reports to identify the officials allegedly involved, explain when the money was requested and state how much was allegedly demanded.

"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."

Legal Action Underway

The GFA said its legal team is reviewing the allegations and will take legal action against individuals and platforms responsible for publishing or spreading the claims.

The Association also urged Ghanaians to verify information before sharing it, noting that misinformation has increased following the Black Stars' exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

"The GFA and our legal team are currently reviewing all these false allegations and will take legal action against individuals and platforms responsible."

The GFA reaffirmed its commitment to integrity, transparency and the development of Ghanaian football, adding that it will not comment further on the matter unless necessary.