All the sixteen Ghana Premier League clubs have confirmed their withdrawal from the upcoming special competition introduced by the Normalization Committee.
The clubs have considered the terms for participating in the competition such as the guaranteed money for a minimum of eight matches and the format of the competition as ‘unacceptable’.
A strange policy to have the Normalization Committee pay prize money of the competition directly to the players have also been seen as a disrespectful slap in the face of club administrators as it has the potential of causing disaffecting between club managers and players while also impugning on the integrity of club administrators.
The sixteen (16) clubs in the Premier League had earlier stated their intention to boycott the special competition if their concerns are not addressed Normalization Committee.
“As respectfully expressed to the Normalisation Committee during yesterday’s meeting, we have grave concerns about the format presented and, as such, cannot commit to participating as currently constructed.
“Yesterday, we presented an alternative proposal based on our years of experience financing and operating clubs which we believe represents the interests of all stakeholders, including our brothers in Division One. We also believe it provides the most compelling platform to attract media/commercial partners and re-launch football in Ghana with great excitement.
“We are prepared to move forward with 16-team Premier League CAF Champions League Qualification Tournament as presented to and approved by the Normalisation Committee, and appreciate your stated willingness to adjust your timelines to minimize scheduling issues.â€
The clubs, however, left a door open for further interactions with the GFA's Normalization Committee.
“Should you wish to continue a constructive dialogue on how we can participate in a broader tournament along the lines of the 64-Team CAF Confederation Cup we would welcome a further discussion.
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“Otherwise, we wish you all the best for the success of your special tournament as currently structured. We look forward to working with you toward the best interests of football in Ghana.â€
This is the latest setback in the work of the Normalization Committee as they bid to get local competitions resumed.