Agyeman Badu laments terrible salaries for local players, posits threshold

Emmanuel Agyeman Badu spoke about low salaries in the Ghana Premier League. He mentioned that some players earn only GHS400 or GHS500 a month.

"The boys are really suffering in this country," he said. Badu shared his thoughts on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ayekoo Ayekoo show. He expressed concern that some players struggle to meet their basic needs.

He pointed out the high cost of football boots as an example. Many underprivileged GPL players travel long distances to train due to poor systems in Ghana.

Badu noted that teams like Hearts, Kotoko, and Medeama pay better salaries. He attributed the poor conditions to a lack of sponsorship and low wages. This situation forces players to seek opportunities abroad.

While he acknowledged government efforts for better infrastructure, he called for more financial support for the league. "Injecting money into the league is essential," he urged.

Badu suggested reducing the number of teams in the league. He compared it to Scotland and Belgium, where teams are fewer but financially stable.

"Prioritize those who can finance and pay players well," he added. He believes better pay would help retain talent and maintain consistent lineups.

"If you sell all your stars after a year, who will fans see?" he asked. Badu proposed setting a financial threshold for teams similar to bank licensing requirements.

"If finances are weak, they shouldn't be allowed in the league," he stated. With fewer teams playing multiple matches, there would be more money available to keep players and attract fans to stadiums.