Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has dismissed claims that the GFA influences player selections for the Black Stars. He made this statement on November 4, while appearing before Parliament's Select Committee on Youth and Sports. The committee was convened to address issues concerning the administration and development of Ghana football. Okraku's comments aimed to clarify the role of the GFA in the selection process for the senior national team.
Okraku emphasized that the responsibility of selecting players lies solely with the team's technical handlers. He stated that the GFA's Executive Council does not interfere in the technical decisions of the coaching staff. According to Okraku, if the Executive Council was involved in selecting players, one of its members would have publicly disclosed this information. His assertions come amid ongoing debates about the selection process for the Black Stars.
The GFA president's comments address concerns about squad composition and the inclusion of specific players. There have been questions about the possible influence of football administrators on technical decisions. Okraku's statement seeks to distance the GFA leadership from claims of interference in the player selection process. He reiterated that selecting players remains the responsibility of the head coach and his technical team.
The Black Stars are set to return to action this month with a crucial double-header against Somalia in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Ghana aims to revive their qualification hopes after consecutive defeats to Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia in their opening Group C matches. The upcoming fixtures are vital for the Black Stars as they seek to improve their position in the group.
Okraku's appearance before the Parliamentary committee was part of a broader engagement on the challenges facing Ghana football. The GFA president is committed to addressing the issues affecting the sport in the country. His engagement with the committee reflects the GFA's efforts to promote transparency and good governance in Ghanaian football.
The Black Stars have received a nomination for CAF National Team of the Year despite their struggles in the AFCON qualifiers. This nomination acknowledges the team's achievements and contributions to African football. Additionally, Caleb Yirenkyi has been shortlisted for the 2026 CAF Young Player of the Year award, highlighting Ghana's talent in the sport.
Okraku has also welcomed the Black Maidens home after their impressive campaign in the U-17 World Cup. The team's performance was notable, and the GFA president's reception of the team demonstrates his support for Ghana's young footballers. The GFA continues to prioritize the development of football in Ghana, focusing on both the national teams and grassroots programs.
Key points
- The GFA does not select players for the Black Stars, and this responsibility lies solely with the team's technical handlers.
