Local players must earn Black Stars call-up on merit, not quota system - Asamoah Gyan
Asamoah Gyan has stressed that locally based players must prove themselves through performance if they are to earn invitations to the senior national team. Gyan has taken a firm stance that selection should be strictly merit-based ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. According to Gyan, previous generations of locally based players earned their spots because they consistently proved they could match up against elite opposition.
Gyan recalled how he broke into the national team as a home-based player and displaced foreign-based professionals through strong performances. He stated, "When I came, I was a local player. I came to substitute a foreign-based player; I was able to deliver." Gyan also referenced a period when the Ghana Premier League supplied a large portion of the national team squad, including instances where an entire Hearts of Oak lineup represented Ghana in high-profile matches, such as a clash against Nigeria featuring stars like Jay-Jay Okocha. He questioned whether the current crop of local players is doing enough to convince national team selectors.
Six locally based players have been included in the Black Stars squad for the upcoming friendly against Mexico on May 22, as part of preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
Quick Summary
Asamoah Gyan has weighed in on the debate around Black Stars call-ups for local players - sparking discussion about merit versus quotas. The former captain's perspective raises questions about the balance between local talent and international readiness.
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