President John Dramani Mahama has voiced strong concerns over the exodus of youthful football talent from the domestic top flight, warning that the rush to cash in on rising stars is diluting the standard of the Ghana Premier League.
Speaking on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, during a courtesy call at the Jubilee House by continental representatives Nations FC and Medeama SC, the President stressed that local clubs need to adopt a more patient approach to player development.
“We are too quick to sell our players. As soon as a player begins to show promise, scouts take him away, mostly to Europe, and that depletes the quality of our local league,” Mahama stated.
According to the President, keeping talented prospects at home for extended periods would allow them to mature, gather vital experience, and build their readiness before chasing careers abroad.
Beyond player retention, President Mahama turned his attention to the contentious issue of officiating, pointing the finger at refereeing standards as a primary roadblock hampering the competitiveness and growth of Ghanaian club football.
He challenged the Ghana Football Association and the Referees Association of Ghana to collaborate closely to purge suspicion and restore integrity to the game.
“Unfortunately, refereeing is one of the things destroying our football,” he cautioned, highlighting how lingering perceptions of biased officiating and pre-determined outcomes have drained enthusiasm and kept fans away from match venues.
President Mahama maintained that safeguarding sporting integrity—ensuring victories are earned strictly on merit—coupled with keeping local talent grounded in the country for longer, will be vital catalysts in revitalizing stadium attendances and lifting the overall prestige of domestic football.