Former Black Stars assistant coach Maxwell Konadu has attributed the steady decline of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) to two key issues: low player salaries and poor sporting infrastructure.
According to Konadu, the financial incentives for players in the domestic league are inadequate.
As a result, standout performers, particularly top scorers, tend to leave the country in search of better-paying opportunities abroad rather than stay to build long-term careers in the GPL.
“Once you score a few goals, you’re gone the next season,” Konadu said.
“It’s not like that in South Africa because they pay them good money. The players there are relaxed and not in a hurry to travel to Europe because they enjoy what they’re doing at home.”
The former Asante Kotoko coach, who recently managed South African side Black Leopards, contrasted Ghana’s situation with the Premier Soccer League (PSL) in South Africa.
He noted that strong infrastructure and attractive salaries help retain top talents in the PSL, making it more competitive and appealing to fans.
“The South African league is very competitive. Clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are always in the CAF Champions League. Good infrastructure leads to beautiful football and it helps their league a lot,” he added, as reported by Ghanasoccernet.com.
Another contributing factor to the GPL’s challenges is the persistent lack of official sponsorship which limits clubs’ ability to generate revenue, pay competitive salaries and maintain operations effectively.
Konadu’s comments echo growing concerns among stakeholders that without significant investment in infrastructure, sponsorship and player welfare, the Ghana Premier League may continue to struggle in terms of quality, fan engagement and international competitiveness.
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