Daniel Opare slams 'joke' Ghana football system, warns Black Stars face years of struggles without drassroots investment

Former Ghana international Daniel Opare has launched a scathing criticism of the country’s football system, describing its current state as “a joke” and warning that the Black Stars could endure years of difficulties if urgent measures are not taken to develop young talents.

Ghana football has faced several challenges in recent years, with concerns over youth development, talent production and the declining fortunes of the senior national team dominating discussions.

Speaking on TV3, the former Real Madrid defender expressed frustration over what he believes is the poor management of youth football in the country, insisting that the foundation of the game needs immediate attention.

​"I think we are playing a lot. It's a joke. And when I say things like this, it really makes me angry to talk about it. And when you speak, they say you talk too much. But this is the truth. I'm telling them the Federation needs to do better."

The 2010 FIFA U-20 World Cup winner criticised the number of unproductive competitions being organised while developmental structures continue to suffer, calling on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to redirect its focus towards building a stronger football pipeline.

Opare believes the revival of Ghanaian football must begin at the grassroots level, particularly through increased investment in colts football, which has historically produced some of the country’s biggest talents.

​"They need to encourage the Colts teams. They need to push the money there. They need to make sure that these young ones get the facilities for them to improve."

According to the former Black Stars defender, failure to strengthen youth football will have a direct impact on the national team, as Ghana risks struggling to produce quality players capable of competing at the highest level.

​"Otherwise, the Black Stars is going to keep on suffering, struggling for years to come because we are not going to get the product to supply. And that's the truth," Opare warned.

The Black Stars recently exited the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Round of 32 stage after suffering a defeat to Colombia. The team will now turn their attention to preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which are scheduled to begin in September.