Former Ebusua Dwarfs defender and ex-Black Stars centre-back Rashid Sumaila says introducing a quota system for local players in the Black Stars and other national teams will attract sponsors to the Ghana Premier League.
His comments come amid recurring debates over the limited inclusion of Ghana Premier League players in the Black Stars squad, especially during major international tournaments.
Critics have often argued that the increasing reliance on foreign-based players including those of Ghanaian descent born abroad reduces opportunities for homegrown talents.
The Ghana Football Association ruled out a quota system for local players in the Black Stars squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to the media during the unveiling of new jerseys and kits for Adisadel Youth Sporting Club (AYSC) ahead of the 2026/27 Division Two Middle League in Cape Coast in the Central Region, Rashid Sumaila, a Board Member of the club, said a quota would revive interest in the domestic league.
According to him, many talented players in the Ghana Premier League feel overlooked despite their consistent performances for their clubs.
He believes guaranteeing slots for local players in the national teams will motivate players to give their all and raise the overall standard of competition.
Rashid cited the recent call-up of Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare to the Black Stars squad for the World Cup qualifiers as proof that local inclusion can boost confidence.
He said if such opportunities are institutionalized, corporate bodies will be encouraged to invest in the league because of its direct link to the national teams, Ghana’s biggest football brand.
He noted that a vibrant league with national team prospects will attract more fans to stadiums and more sponsors to clubs.
However, he cautioned that local players must also justify any quota by demonstrating high levels of performance and discipline.
He has, therefore, called on the technical team of the Black Stars to pay closer attention to the Ghana Premier League this year.
The Club Chairman for AYSC, Isaac Tettey, popularly known as Obutey, also addressed the club’s vision and aims for the season, highlighting some of the challenges Division Two clubs face.
By Timothy Gaison|Onua News|Onuaonline.com|Ghana
