Francis Akwafo-Boateng, a former Asante Kotoko legend known as Totti, has emphasized the need for experienced players to be actively involved in the Ghana Premier League (GPL) in order to raise the quality of football in the league.
As the president of the Great United Footballers Association (GUFA), Akwaffo believes that the GPL has lost its spark, leading to a decline in fan attendance.
He suggests that the inclusion of experienced and popular players would attract more spectators to the stadiums. Akwaffo cites the example of Asamoah Gyan’s return to the league, which generated hype and excitement among fans.
Reflecting on his own career, Akwafo recalls that his move to play in Egypt made him realize that football is not just about individual skills, but also about teamwork and strategic play. He praises the scientific approach to the game in Europe, which has contributed to its thriving football culture.
“Experienced and popular players should be involved in our league because they would attract people to the stadium. Looking at players like Asamoah Gyan who returned to play for Legon Cities in the league, it brought some type of hype and excitement to the game. There’s no one in the league now people would troop in to watch and it’s very sad”.
Akwafo advises current players to avoid complacency and instead learn from former teammates. He encourages healthy competition among players, which he believes will improve their performance.
“ It was after I moved to play in Egypt that I realized football is not about dribbling too much and holding on to the ball for long. Instead, it is just a simple give and take of the ball, it is science.. that’s why football in Europe is thriving,” he added.
The former Asante Kotoko player credits coaches like Karim Zito and Herbert Addo for his successful tenure at the club. During his 11-year career in the Ghanaian top-flight, Akwafo showcased his exciting talent playing for B.A United and Asante Kotoko. He also gained experience abroad, playing in Egypt, Libya, and for German side FSV Frankfurt.
In 2021, Akwafo established the Francis Akwaffo Academy, dedicated to nurturing and training young talents in Ghana.
