Ghana has emerged as one of the top countries in the world for producing and exporting football talent, according to the latest FIFA Global Transfer Report 2023.
The report, which analyses the international transfer activity of professional players across the globe, revealed that Ghanaian footballers were the seventh most transferred players in 2023, with a total of 630 moves involving a change of association.
This represents a 19.1% increase from 2022 and places Ghana ahead of other African countries such as Nigeria, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. Only Brazil, Argentina, France, Spain, England, and Portugal had more players involved in cross-border transfers than Ghana.
The report also showed that transfers involving Ghanaian players raked in $162.9 million, ranking 20th overall in terms of spending. Nigeria ranked higher (15th) with $189.1 million, while Egypt was the third highest African country (24th) with $121.4 million.
The most expensive Ghanaian transfer in 2023 was Kudus Mohammed, who moved from Ajax Amsterdam to West Ham United for $48 million. The 22-year-old midfielder was one of the standout performers in the Dutch league and the UEFA Champions League before joining the English Premier League side.
Other notable Ghanaian transfers in 2023 included Thomas Partey, who joined Juventus from Arsenal for $35 million, Jordan Ayew, who signed for Sevilla from Crystal Palace for $25 million, and Kwadwo Asamoah, who returned to Inter Milan from Cagliari for $18 million.
The FIFA Global Transfer Report 2023 also highlighted the impressive growth of women’s football, with international transfers increasing by more than 20% compared to 2022. Ghana also saw a 36.8% increase in transfers in women’s football, ranking eighth overall, with a total of 52 players involved in transfers.
The report, which is based on data from FIFA’s Transfer Matching System, reflects the huge strides being taken in the development and promotion of football in Ghana and across the continent. It also showcases the talent and potential of Ghanaian players, who are making their mark in the global game.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kurt Okraku expressed his delight at the findings of the report and praised the efforts of the players, clubs, agents, and other stakeholders involved in the transfer market.
“We are very proud of our players, who are flying the flag of Ghana high in the world of football. They are not only earning a good living for themselves and their families but also contributing to the growth and development of the sport in our country and beyond,” he said.
He added that the GFA is committed to supporting and facilitating the transfer of players, especially young and emerging talents, to reputable clubs and leagues around the world.
“We have a vision to make Ghana the leading football nation in Africa and among the best in the world. To achieve this, we need to provide our players with the best opportunities and platforms to showcase their skills and talents. We also need to ensure that they are protected and treated fairly in the transfer market,” he said.
He urged the players to continue to work hard, stay focused and disciplined, and represent Ghana with honor and pride.
Source: MyJoyOnline
