GFA denies Prince Owusu call-up payment allegations, threatens legal action over ‘false’ claims

The allegations, which circulated on social media and were attributed to a purported relative of the striker, claimed Owusu had been asked to surrender a percentage of his potential earnings from his World Cup call-up to officials of the Association.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the GFA described the claims as “false and malicious,” insisting they were entirely fabricated and aimed at damaging 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 read.

The Association stressed that player selection for all national teams rests solely with the respective head coaches and not with the GFA’s leadership or any individual official.

It also clarified that the payment of appearance fees, match bonuses and other financial entitlements is handled directly by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, with funds transferred straight into players’ personal bank accounts.

Responding directly to the allegations, the GFA challenged those behind the claims to publicly identify the officials allegedly involved and provide evidence to support their accusations.

“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,” the Association said.

The GFA further noted that both FIFA’s Code of Ethics and its own governance regulations prohibit extortion, bribery and any form of financial impropriety, adding that such offences attract severe sanctions, including bans and possible criminal prosecution.

The Association also warned that its legal team is reviewing the allegations and confirmed that legal action will be taken against individuals and platforms responsible for publishing what it described as defamatory claims.

The statement comes days after reports emerged on social media alleging that Owusu’s place in Ghana’s World Cup squad was linked to financial demands, claims that had already been dismissed by sources close to the player. The Black Stars forward was part of Ghana’s squad that reached the Round of 32 before being eliminated by Colombia.

Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet