PFAG Condemns Takyi Arhin’s ‘Goat Farming’ Remark About Dede Ayew

According to a report by GhanaWeb on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. The Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has condemned comments made by Aduana FC General Manager Takyi Arhin about former Black Stars captain André “Dede” Ayew, describing the remarks as disrespectful and unacceptable in Ghanaian football.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 12, 2026, the association expressed concern over comments attributed to Mr Arhin during a radio discussion about Ayew’s reported interest in becoming president of the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

Mr Arhin reportedly suggested that Ayew should return to his hometown of Paga in the Upper East Region and invest his money in businesses, including goat farming, rather than pursue a position in football administration.

He also argued that relationships and administrative experience were important factors in becoming successful in football leadership.

However, the PFAG criticised the manner in which the football administrator expressed his views, arguing that disagreements over football administration should not involve personal ridicule or comments about a person’s regional background.

The players’ association stated that it disagreed with the remarks directed at Ayew, who is a member of the union, and described them as disparaging.

It expressed particular concern about the reference to the former Black Stars captain’s Northern roots and the suggestion that he should invest in goat farming in Paga.

According to the association, a person’s place of birth or family background should never be used to ridicule them or question their suitability to contribute to Ghanaian football.

The PFAG emphasised that football belongs to all Ghanaians, regardless of whether they come from the northern, southern, eastern or western parts of the country.

It warned that comments based on regional identity could reinforce harmful stereotypes and create unnecessary divisions within the football community.

The association also argued that such remarks could discourage capable individuals and potential corporate partners from contributing to the development of the sport.

The PFAG maintained that discussions about football leadership should focus on competence, experience, ideas, vision and service rather than personal attacks.

It further insisted that Ayew should be assessed on his contribution to Ghanaian football and his ability to serve the game, rather than his geographical background.

The controversy attracted reactions from football stakeholders and residents of Paga, with calls for the Aduana FC official to apologise for the remarks.

On October 10, 2026, Mr Arhin reportedly issued an apology to Ayew and the people of Paga, describing his comment as an unfortunate mistake.

He acknowledged that he had erred and expressed respect for Ayew and his family for their contribution to Ghanaian football.

The apology followed criticism from the Paga Youth Movement, which had described the remark as demeaning to the community and called for a public apology.

Although Mr Arhin has apologised, the PFAG’s statement reiterates the importance of maintaining respect and professionalism when discussing football administration.

The development has renewed discussions about responsible communication, regional inclusion and the standards expected of football administrators.

The PFAG concluded by reaffirming its commitment to protecting the dignity and legitimate voice of current and former Ghanaian players.

It urged football stakeholders to promote constructive discussions and ensure that disagreements about the future of the game do not become personal attacks or attempts to ridicule individuals because of their background.

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