PFAG condemns disrespectful ‘goat farming’ comment about Dede Ayew

The Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has condemned what it describes as disrespectful comments directed at former Black Stars captain André ‘Dede’ Ayew.

The General Manager of Aduana FC, Takyi Arhin, reportedly said Ayew could not become President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) as long as Kurt Okraku remained in office.

The club official also advised the footballer to return to his hometown in the Northern Region and invest his money in goat farming rather than waste it on a bid for the GFA presidency.

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In a statement released on October 12, 2026, the PFAG strongly condemned the remarks, describing them as disrespectful and unacceptable in Ghana football.

The association stressed that a person's roots should not be used to ridicule or demean them, warning that such comments could promote division within the football fraternity.

“The Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has taken notice of a widely circulated interview in which a player and former captain of the Black Stars and a member of the PFAG is addressed on a football matter in a very unfortunate and disrespectful manner. The Players Union not only disagrees with the comments directed at our member, André ‘Dede’ Ayew, but condemns this as unacceptable and disparaging.

“We are also particularly concerned by the reference to Dede's northern roots and the suggestion that he should invest his money in goat farming in Paga. Ghana football belongs to every Ghanaian irrespective of where they come from—North, South, East, or West. A person's roots, place of birth, or background should never be used to ridicule, demean, or question their place in our football ecosystem. Such language risks reinforcing stereotypes and divisions that have no place in our game,” portions of the statement read.

The PFAG called for an end to such conduct and reiterated its full support for Ayew, stressing that he should be free to decide his future without being subjected to personal attacks or insults.

“Such language is not just condescending but robs the football industry of well-meaning individuals and corporate partnerships needed to support the development and growth of the game. To say it is better to invest in goat farming rather than participate in football matters does not contribute meaningfully to the discussion in any way. Football and its development should be about ideas, competence, vision and service, not personal attacks, regional stereotypes or ridicule.

“As the Professional Footballers Association of Ghana, we will continue to stand for the dignity, respect and legitimate voice of our players, past and present. Dede Ayew should be judged on his ideas, experience, competence and contribution to Ghana football, not on where his family comes from,” the statement added.

Read the full statement below:



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