By Nana Kwame Bediako
Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, former chairman of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has voiced his concerns regarding the current strategy employed by the Black Stars’ head coach, Otto Addo. During a meeting at the Ghanaman Soccer of Excellence in Prampram, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe emphasized the importance of nurturing local talent to strengthen the senior national team to Otto Addo.
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe, known for his passionate advocacy for Ghanaian football, believes that relying heavily on players from European leagues may not be the most effective approach. He argues that while these players possess experience, they often play with caution, which might not be conducive to the dynamic style of play that the Black Stars are known for. By focusing on homegrown talent, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe suggests that the team could harness the raw energy and enthusiasm that local players bring to the field.
The former GFA chairman’s remarks have put Otto Addo in a challenging position. The 45-year-old coach, who has been at the helm of the Black Stars, expressed his apprehensions about the proposed strategy. Addo fears that if the team fails to perform well with a squad built primarily around local players, he could face ridicule and criticism from both the public and the media.
“I met Otto Addo at the Ghanaman Soccer of Excellence at Prampram and encouraged him to build the Black Stars around local players because those playing in Europe are not necessarily the best. They often play cautiously,” Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe shared during an interview with Asempa FM. “The coach responded that people would laugh at him if he tried local players and it didn’t work out.”
Despite the potential backlash, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe’s advice is rooted in a long-term vision for Ghanaian football. He believes that investing in local talent will not only enhance the national team’s performance but also contribute to the development of the sport within the country. By providing opportunities for local players to shine on the international stage, Ghana could establish a more sustainable and self-reliant football ecosystem.
