Saanie Daara explains why local players should not 'rush' to Europe prematurely

A former Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Ibrahim Saanie Daara, has advised locally-based players to reconsider moving to European clubs early in their careers.

He warns that relocating prematurely without sufficient maturity could result in limited playing time and opportunities, negatively impacting performance.

The communication expert also noted that by staying and excelling in the Ghana Premier League, players can help enhance the league's quality and Ghana's competitiveness in African football.

During an interview with Nathaniel Attoh on Accra-based Joy FM, Saanie encouraged local players to carefully assess their decisions to join European clubs.

"There are still many players who can go through our system, perform well in the local league, and eventually make their way to Europe. It doesn't have to be too costly, and it can help us dominate and succeed," he said.

"You might have colleagues who at the beginning might want to go to Europe, might be qualified or might be attracted to the European clubs or the European clubs want them but they must first assess the situation" he added.

He also advised young players not to be solely focused on going to Europe, as not everyone will have the same opportunities.

Daara cited instances where many talented players are currently in Ghana waiting for foreign clubs to notice them, a situation he said could result in them stagnating for years.

“But the truth also is that you might not all have the same opportunity. There are a lot of players talented now who are sitting in the country. They say they don't want to play for any local club as they expect clubs from abroad to come for them but they could be waiting for about two, three years and still be languishing,” he explained.

Watch the video below:

''Copy the model of Right to Dream, imprint it"

-Former GFA Communications Director, @SannieDaara on improving talents in Ghana:#JoySports pic.twitter.com/nFkMzPExrs

— #EurosOnMGL (@JoySportsGH) July 8, 2024