Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called on newly appointed Sports and Recreation Minister, Kofi Adams, to ensure that player selections for the Black Stars are based on merit rather than favoritism.
Otumfuo made these remarks during Kofi Adams’ visit to Manhyia Palace on Friday, February 14.
The Asantehene, who is also the life patron of Asante Kotoko, expressed concern over the declining fortunes of the senior national team, attributing the struggles to nepotism within the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
"The Black Stars have been disgraceful these days. You have to get the Black Stars back on the winning track," Otumfuo told Kofi Adams.
“Make sure the technical team invites players who truly deserve to be in the national team. No one should be allowed to bring in players for their own selfish interests."
The Black Stars have endured a difficult period, suffering back-to-back group-stage exits at the 2021 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Their struggles reached a new low when they failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, marking their first absence from the tournament in two decades.
Despite this setback, Ghana will have a chance to rebuild as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March, where they will face Chad and Madagascar in crucial Matchday five and six fixtures.
