Former Black Stars striker Prince Tagoe has reignited debate around the state of Ghana’s domestic football after revealing he once rejected an offer from French giants Paris Saint-Germain in favour of joining Hearts of Oak, while now openly criticising the challenges facing the local league.
Tagoe’s Career Choice and Its Lessons
Speaking candidly, Prince Tagoe explained that his decision to turn down PSG for Hearts of Oak was driven by loyalty, ambition, and belief in the strength of Ghanaian football at the time. However, years on, the former striker admits the landscape has changed significantly, with local players now struggling to find sustainable pathways to the top.
Local Players Forced to Settle for Lower Leagues
According to Tagoe, many Ghana Premier League players are increasingly moving to second-tier clubs abroad rather than top-flight teams, largely due to limited exposure, poor infrastructure, and weak commercial backing of the local league. This trend, he argues, reflects a system that no longer adequately prepares or markets its talents.
Top-Tier Moves Not Translating Into Playing Time
Even when Ghanaian players secure moves to top-flight clubs outside the country, regular playing time remains elusive. Tagoe cited cases where players struggle to break into first teams, limiting development and long-term career growth.
Prince Tagoe speaks on rejecting PSG and the struggles of Ghana’s domestic league
Albert Amoah Example Highlights the Reality
One recent example is striker Albert Amoah, whose short spell at Libyan side Al Ahly Benghazi failed to produce the breakthrough many had hoped for. His situation, according to Tagoe, mirrors a wider problem where Ghanaian players secure moves abroad but lack the structural support and competitive continuity needed to succeed.
Call for Structural Reforms in Ghana Football
Prince Tagoe’s comments have renewed calls for urgent reforms within Ghana’s domestic league, including better player welfare, stronger club management, improved marketing, and consistent youth development structures. Without these changes, he warns, Ghana risks continuing to export raw talent without fully benefiting from its potential.
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