Former Black Stars player Derek Boateng has made a strong statement regarding the Ghana Football Association (GFA), accusing them of focusing solely on financial gain rather than the welfare of footballers.

In an interview, Boateng’s remarks come as Ghana approaches its 2025 AFCON qualifier against Sudan in October, with no official venue confirmed due to the lack of a CAF-approved stadium in the country. The Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi was Ghana’s last remaining approved venue, but CAF withdrew its approval after Ghana’s 1-0 loss to Angola there in September.

Boateng expressed frustration over the poor playing conditions faced by Black Stars players, criticizing the GFA for its lack of action. He stated, “The FA needs to wake up and do something because this is their job; to ensure that all fields are good for the players to play. The only thing they care about…is money. We have players playing in Europe on good fields. They come here to play on a s*** field, and you expect them to perform well and win games.”

He further emphasized that if the team struggles to secure victories, the GFA should not place the blame on the players. “If the win isn’t coming, then it will be a problem. If the FA cares about football, they have to ensure that these issues are addressed before the players arrive. They cannot pressure the players for their performance when the conditions are subpar; it’s their responsibility.”

Boateng, who has played for clubs like Getafe in Spain and Panathinaikos in Greece, is currently a scout at Right To Dream and represented Ghana at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.