Azam FC striker Yahaya Mohammed says Ghana Premier League lacks high profile players who will attract supporters to various stadiums on matchdays.
The 28-year-old, who previously played for Asante Kotoko, Inter Allies and Aduana Stars, believes the standard of play has been impressive over the years but supporters want to watch superstars not the raw talent.
Samuel Afful, Samuel Tetteh, Abednego Tetteh, Gilbert Fiamenyo, Kadri Mohammed and Gideon Mensah have all left the local scene.
“The Ghana Premier League has improved in terms of standard of play and tactics displayed by players and coaches but it is still having some problems. Last season was great because it was competitive from day one but the local stars continue to leave,” Yahaya told Base Radio in China.
“Lack of high profile players to attract a lot of supporters is still a big issue and something must be done about it. In the past, Ghanaians were filling the stadiums every weekend to watch the likes of Ishmael Addo, Nana Arhin Duah and Charles Taylor but what do we see now? After just two seasons in Ghana, players are referred to as old even if you are 25.
“That is why the good players are moving to foreign countries for greener pastures leaving behind those that many supporters don’t find anything special about them. The young and energetic players who stay behind are equally good but they can’t project the league well. If you go to the stadium today, which top players are you going to watch?” he asked.
“Look at Zlatan Ibrahimovic at age 35, he is still playing actively for Manchester United and the English Premier League is benefiting as a result because a lot of people attend Manchester’s games just to watch him and other top stars.”
He added: “The players must be paid well so that they can stay in the country for a longer period and I also think club administrators must also consider getting sponsorships for the clubs so that they can be competitive.”
Yahaya scored 17 goals last season to finish as the second topscorer behind Latif Blessing.
Join GhanaStar.com to receive daily email alerts of breaking news in Ghana. GhanaStar.com is your source for all Ghana News. Get the latest Ghana news, breaking news, sports, politics, entertainment and more about Ghana, Africa and beyond.
