Bibiani Gold Stars defender Vincent Atinga has opened up about the significant challenges players face in the Ghana Premier League (GPL), pointing to poor pitch conditions and inadequate salaries as major hurdles.
In an interview with Akoma FM, the former Hearts of Oak defender expressed concerns over the financial struggles endured by many players in the league, revealing that he often supports some of his colleagues who find it difficult to make ends meet.
“Playing in the GPL is really difficult for us, especially given our salaries and the types of pitches we play on. This is why players often seek greener pastures elsewhere. I’ve personally had to financially assist my colleagues from other teams because their wages are so low,” Atinga disclosed.
The poor state of football pitches across the country has long been a concern, with many clubs forced to compete on substandard surfaces that affect player performance and increase the risk of injuries.
Combined with low remuneration for players, these challenges have fueled the high rate of player departures at the end of every season, as they seek better opportunities abroad.
Atinga’s remarks underscore the urgent need for stakeholders in Ghanaian football to address these issues. Improving player welfare and upgrading facilities are critical steps toward enhancing the quality of the local league and curbing the exodus of talent.
