By Jones Anlimah
In the wake of the Ghana national football team, the Black starscoming off a defeat and a disappointing performance at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, questions are once again being raised about the country’s approach to talent identification, development and overall improvement in the sporting arena.
Criticism has been leveled by some Ghanaians, Black Stars sympathizers, football fans and lovers of the game, following the decision of the Ghana Football Association to sack coach Chris Hughton, over the underwhelming performance of the country’s National Team, the Black Stars, in the ongoing African football celebration.
This has highlighted and intensified the need for a closer look at the country’s blueprint for sporting success. A key concern is whether Ghana has a comprehensive strategy to identify and develop talent in the various sports disciplines, especially football, the passion and heartbeat of every nation.
We also cannot ignore the crucial link between the national team’s performances over the past four decades since its 1982 major trophy and the state of facilities and training grounds around the country and the caliber of players that make up the Black National Team. of stars. Over the years.
While strides have been made over the years, the inadequacy of education facilities across the country remains a major challenge. For example, one cannot boast of standard or acceptable football fields in Ho Municipality of Volta Region and few other places across the country. This undoubtedly undermines the potential growth and development of football talent in the Municipality and similarly challenged areas.
Inadequate standard training grounds raise questions about the commitment to providing adequate infrastructure for aspiring athletes. A nation’s sporting success is inextricably linked to the quality and accessibility of training facilities, prompting the need for immediate attention and investment in this aspect.
The absence of a clear strategy to support struggling local football clubs, which play a vital role in nurturing talent for national teams, is another critical issue. These clubs often face financial difficulties and need help to survive and thrive.
A strong plan that includes financial support, infrastructural development, grassroots programs and real talent, who have the love, passion and desire to sacrifice and make a difference for mother Ghana, is imperative to ensure the sustainable success of football clubs, to contribute significantly to the country’s talent pool.
There are gifted talents, who wish to play for a club, before or to eventually play for the Black Stars, so they are not too greedy financially and aware. Without a thriving club system, the pipeline of talent feeding the national teams is compromised, directly affecting the competitiveness of the Black Stars.
Ghana’s approach to improving football cannot rely solely on changing coaches and therefore needs a more holistic strategy. Investment in sport, particularly football, must be a national priority. This should entail, not only financial support, but also a comprehensive plan to identify, develop and support local football club talent.
The disappointing performance of the Black Stars in the ongoing AFCON tournament should serve as a catalyst for Ghana to reassess its sporting landscape.
It is time for a concerted effort to create a clear and effective plan to identify and develop talent, improve facilities across the country and provide meaningful support to struggling football clubs.
It is only through such comprehensive measures and a well-discussed, thought-out plan and action and love and sacrifice for mother Ghana, that the nation’s hope can reap the fruits of sporting success and break the cycle of disillusionment that plagues the world football scene scene.
As the African Cup of Nations unfolds, it has become apparent that placing the blame solely on the coaches is insufficient. The responsibility lies with those who shape the wider landscape of Ghanaian football. Calls for increased investment and a well-defined strategy have never been more urgent.
If Ghana aspires to achieve success on the international stage, a concerted effort to address the fundamental or foundational issues in football development is not only advisable but necessary. Too many Coaches have been fired/relieved and questions have been and are being asked as to who, what team or individual is benefiting from this?
Is there any monetary gain or glory or good reputation in removing coaches from their positions? Let us be compassionate and have love for Ghana, our motherland. The ball is in the court of those charged with driving change and progress in the Ghanaian football landscape.
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