Give local-based players confidence to do more – GHALCA president 

Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) President John Ansah has weighed into the debate over home-based player representation in the Black Stars, insisting that local clubs must be given the confidence to develop talent capable of competing at the highest level.

Speaking on Channel One Sports, Ansah supported calls for greater inclusion of locally based players in Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. While he acknowledged that the Ghana Premier League is "among one of the best" on the continent, he stressed that the responsibility does not lie solely with national team coaches.

"It all boils down to giving them confidence to do more," Ansah said, referring to the clubs and players themselves.

He noted that in the 2022 World Cup, Ghana had two home-based players, and during qualifiers, others were also given opportunities. With new Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz now at the helm, Ansah expressed optimism that the Portuguese tactician might consider selecting even more domestic talents.

"But my clubs must play a major role in improving themselves," he added, calling for stronger development structures at the local level.

Historically, Ghana's World Cup squads have been dominated by foreign-based professionals. The 2006, 2010, and 2014 teams featured minimal domestic representation. However, the 2022 squad marked a slight shift with the inclusion of Daniel Afriyie Barnieh and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.

For Ansah, the path forward is clear: invest in local football, trust its players, and give them the confidence to rise.