Former Ghana international Augustine Ahinful has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to scrap the practice of assigning national team duties to coaches already managing club sides, warning that the arrangement is counterproductive and opens the door to corruption.
Speaking on Asempa FM, the former Black Stars forward expressed concern over the growing trend of coaches simultaneously overseeing national teams while maintaining roles at Ghana Premier League and Division One clubs.
“National team coaches must not be allowed to coach club sides. If we allow that, I’m sorry to say, corruption will rise in our game,” Ahinful cautioned.
He argued that the dual role leaves coaches stretched too thin, limiting their ability to properly scout and assess talent across the country.
“If a coach is handling a club and is asked to announce a national team squad, how will he be able to travel and scout the right players? It’s just not practical.”
Ahinful believes the overlap in responsibilities compromises the integrity and effectiveness of national team selections, with the risk of favoritism or bias toward players from their own clubs.
To address the issue, he is advocating for a structural overhaul in how national team coaches are appointed and supported.
“We need full-time national team coaches. The GFA and government must work together to employ coaches and pay them monthly. That’s the only way they can dedicate themselves fully to the job,” he said.
He stressed that national team duties require undivided attention—from scouting and training camps to game-day strategy; none of which can be handled properly while juggling club obligations.
“The current system doesn’t work. A coach shouldn’t have to leave his club in the middle of the season just to handle a national team camp. It affects both the club and the country.”
Ahinful’s remarks come at a time when Ghana’s national teams are facing growing scrutiny over inconsistent performances and player selections.
