Hearts of Oak Interim Management Committee (IMC) Lead Administrator, Vincent Sowah Odotei, has blamed the lack of entertainment in the Ghana Premier League for the competition’s persistent struggle to attract supporters to stadiums.

The country’s top-flight league has endured poor matchday attendance over the years, a situation that has hurt the finances of clubs and raised concerns about the competition’s appeal.

Speaking to Joy Sports, Odotei argued that Ghanaian football is not delivering the excitement and drama needed to draw fans, insisting that football is, at its core, an entertainment business.

“Our football is not fit for purpose. Our football is not entertaining. In football, we’re not in the business of football; we’re in the entertainment business through it.

“Football is a drama. You need actors, you need stars that people will want to come and watch,” he said.

The Hearts of Oak administrator cited former players Shamo Quaye and Ablade Kumah as examples of footballers whose popularity brought supporters from their communities to the stadium.

He also mentioned former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah and Anas Seidu, stressing the importance of players who enjoy strong connections with their communities.

“People came to watch Hearts of Oak because of Shamo Quaye and Ablade Kumah. They came from Tema, their community. You go to Newtown, Anas Seidu. You go to Mamprobi, Stephen Appiah and co. That’s where they come from.

“We don’t have that in our football. We are not providing the entertainment, so naturally, people will go to leagues that provide entertainment,” he added.

Odotei’s comments add to growing concerns about the declining appeal of the Ghana Premier League, as clubs continue to struggle to attract supporters and generate matchday revenue.

Following the conclusion of Matchday Nine fixtures over the weekend, attention now shifts to Matchday 10, with games scheduled at various venues across the country this weekend.