Coronavirus: Government should support football clubs, invest more in football – Oliver Arthur

The government has been urged to consider the contributions of football to the Ghanaian economy and support the industry to cope with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Oliver Arthur, CEO of Arthur Legacy is warning that the effect of a collapsed football industry could be catastrophic for the country and is, therefore, appealing to the government to offer financial assistance to the troubled industry.

Ghana football has been wobbling for the past three years as the Number12 documentary and the virus outbreak have combined to deny the industry smooth operation.

In light of the hardship that has paralyzed the industry as a result of the pandemic, the Ghana Football Association has petitioned the government to extend help to the industry.

The GFA according to reports is praying for loan and grant facilities for Premier League and Division One clubs respectively.

Last week, GFA President Kurt Okraku revealed that interactions with the government were ‘fruitful’ and they are confident of securing funds to aid the clubs.

Oliver Arthur was part of a discussion that treated the impact of the virus on football on GhanaWeb and the renowned player agent intimated the need for the government to support the clubs.

“When you look at Brazil, transfers alone helps bring over $380million into the economy and this is something that will help them. Ghana depends a lot on people abroad sending money back so if the government sees football as something that brings revenue to support the economy then I think it is very important that they invest and help the clubs be on their feet.

“Broadening it, I think the government should do more in terms of infrastructure because if we don’t get the measures right, we will not get the return but I’m sure than if we put the measures in place the returns in football is enormous”, he said.