Ghanaian international winger Inaki Williams has won the SPORTY LaLiga Most Valuable Player award again, marking the second time in a row.
Iñaki bagged the award after beating his contenders, Villarreal’s Pape Gueye and Osasuna’s Enzo Boyomo, in a two-fold voting process.
The first part involved an expert jury of 25 top sports journalists from across Africa, while the second part was based on fan votes collected through the MiLiga Fan Zone.
The winner, Iñaki Williams, secured 32% of the total votes, outperforming Pape Gueye (12%) and Enzo Boyomo (10%).
Inaki won this due to his stellar performances this season for his club, where he played more minutes than any other player on his team and contributed 14 goals and assists throughout the season.
His performance for the Athletic Club helped them qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in ten years.
In the just-ended season, Iñaki contributed 6 goals and 8 assists in 35 league appearances for Athletic Bilbao this term.
The 30-year-old has spent his entire professional career with Bilbao and switched his nationality to feature for Ghana in 2022.
The forward has found the back of the net twice in 22 appearances.
However, the Ghana international missed out in Ghana’s 23-man squad for the 2025 Unity Cup in London, England, as head coach Otto Addo intends to use the four-nation tournament to assess new players.
Other absentees also include, Thomas Partey, West Ham’s Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, Kamaldeen Sulemana.
Meanwhile, few new faces have joined the squad, among them Barcelona youngster Abdul Aziz Issah.
Some returnees also include Abdul Salis Samed, who has recovered from injury; Asante Kotoko striker Kwame Opoku, who receives his first call-up since 2021; and Felix Afena-Gyan, returning for the first time since 2022.
However, Captain Jordan Ayew, Gideon Mensah, Mohammed Salisu, and Benjamin Asare have all retained their spots from the previous call-up.
Former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has been named the new coach for German club Bayer Leverkusen in a two-year contract.
The club announced this in an official statement on Monday, May 26.
Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes said, “With Erik ten Hag, we have brought in an experienced coach with impressive success on the pitch.
“With three league titles and two domestic cup wins, he and Ajax dominated Dutch football from 2018 to 2022.”
“And Erik demonstrated his quality as a coach with the ensuing success at Manchester United under difficult circumstances at times,” he noted.
Erik ten Hag will officially start his new role on 1 July this year. In an acceptance speech, he stated that Leverkusen are “one of the best clubs in Germany and also among the top clubs in Europe.”
“I’ve come to Leverkusen to continue with the ambition shown in recent years. It’s an attractive challenge to set up something together in this period of change and develop an ambitious team,” he said.
Ten Hag is taking over from Spanish coach Xabi Alonso, who is set to replace Real Madrid’s long-standing coach, Carlo Ancelotti.
Alonso was confirmed as the new boss of Spanish giants Real Madrid on Sunday, May 24.
This contract marks the Dutchman’s first managerial role since his dismissal by Manchester United in October last year after a disappointing start to the season.
Despite winning the Carabao Cup and FA Cup during his two-year stint at Old Trafford, United struggled in the Premier League.
Sitting 14th on the Premier League table, Ten Hag was sacked after United’s 2-1 loss to West Ham, which left the club with just four wins from their opening 14 matches.
Before his appointment as United’s head coach, the 55-year-old enjoyed a successful stint with Ajax in 2022.
Under former Liverpool midfielder Alonso, Leverkusen won a league and cup double in 2023-24.
They finished second in the Bundesliga this season, 13 points behind champions Bayern Munich.
Two notable players in the Black Stars are missing from Otto Addo’s squad list, which has been released to feature in the upcoming 2025 Unity Cup, set to take place in London, England.
Arsenal midfielder and West Ham’s ‘goal machine,’ Mohammed Kudus, is both anticipated to miss the four-nation tournament, which is set to kick off in the next two days and three days right after the end of the Premier League.
Though the reasons behind their absenteeism remain unknown, this is a major blow for Ghana given the two players’ performances so far both in the just-ended Premier League and in the last few matches they featured in for Ghana.
In Ghana’s last two matches, both players were instrumental. Partey controlled the midfield in Ghana’s 2-1 win against Mali, making crucial interceptions and distributing the ball effectively.
Kudus, meanwhile, was the standout performer in Ghana’s 3-0 victory over the Central African Republic, scoring a brace and assisting another goal.
Other absentees also include Antoine Semenyo, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Inaki Williams.
Meanwhile, few new faces have joined the squad, among them Barcelona youngster Abdul Aziz Issah.
Some returnees also include Abdul Salis Samed, who has recovered from injury; Asante Kotoko striker Kwame Opoku, who receives his first call-up since 2021; and Felix Afena-Gyan, returning for the first time since 2022.
However, Captain Jordan Ayew, Gideon Mensah, Mohammed Salisu, and Benjamin Asare have all retained their spots from the previous call-up.
Full squad below:
The senior national team is scheduled to participate in a four-nation tournament that features Nigeria, Jamaica, Trinidad, and Tobago in the United Kingdom later this month.
The four-day tournament is set to begin from the 28th to the 30th of this month, with Ghana set to face long-time West African rivals Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the semifinal.
The tournament would be played at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, with kickoff at 19:00 GMT.
The winner of that encounter will qualify for the final slated for May 31, with a 12:30 GMT kick-off, to take on either Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago.
The Unity Cup fixtures serve as a key part of Ghana’s preparations for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Black Stars will resume qualifiers in September with games against Chad and Mali, before wrapping up with fixtures against Comoros and the Central African Republic in October.
The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has warned residents of Weija and its surrounding communities of a looming “disaster” if they fail to evacuate.
The company has begun a controlled spillage of excess water from the Weija Dam, and to avert any crisis, it has warned residents of communities likely to be affected to move immediately.
A statement from the water supply company issued on Friday, 23 May, revealed that water levels at the dam have reached 45 feet, just two feet shy of its maximum operating level, due to the onset of the rainy season.
“To safeguard the structural integrity of the dam and avert any potential disaster, minimal spillage has begun,” the statement said.
“The Management of GWL is, by this release, sounding a word of caution to inhabitants downstream to evacuate the area to forestall any eventuality.”
Communities named to be affected by the imminent spillage include Tetegu, Oblogo, Pambros Salt, Lower McCarthy Hill, Lower Weija, Bojo Beach, Adakope, and surrounding areas.
Consequently, GWL has directed all residents in the flagged zone to move to higher grounds and strictly adhere to safety instructions issued by the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and other relevant agencies.
The key directives include immediate evacuation to higher ground, avoiding low-lying areas, and staying away from flooded roads and bridges to prevent accidents.
NADMO has also advised residents to secure valuables and turn off electrical appliances.
The company has also called on the Ga West Municipal Assembly to ensure that all the estuary is desilted and all refuse is cleared along the river course to ensure the free flow of water into the sea and minimize flooding risks.
“We kindly request that all affected residents remain cooperative and adhere to any safety instructions issued by the Municipal Assembly to ensure their safety and prevent any untoward incidents,” the statement added.
GWL stressed that public cooperation is crucial to prevent a repeat of past flood disasters caused by dam overflows.
Several spillages of water from the dam in the past led to flooding of homes and destruction of properties.
Legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has shared his excitement after learning about his physiological age, citing that, he is certain he can continue playing football for the next 10 year.
This comes after the Whoop platform, a wearable fitness and health tracking platform designed to help users monitor and improve their performance, recovery, and overall well-being, analyzed Ronaldo and discovered that his physiological age is 28.9 years old.
In reaction to the results from Whoop, the Al-Nassr forward has expressed satisfaction, suggesting that he could play for the next decade.
“I can’t believe it is so good. This means I will play for another ten years. When you’re young, you think you will live forever, that you will always be strong, that you’re unbreakable,” he told Whoop.
He, however, acknowledges the effect aging has on the body, particularly as a footballer.
In order to keep his form and shape for optimal performance on the pitch, he shared how he “prioritizes recovery and sleep much more than before.
.”…at 25, it is not the same as when you’re 30, especially in football. I still feel good.”
Ronaldo stated that his ability to remain strong physically at 40 years old is a remarkable feat, and he hopes to continue in the same form to play football for a longer period than expected.
The former Real Madrid legend is taunted for his fitness and form even at age 40 as Ronaldo continues to be one of the most prolific goal scorers for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, having scored 24 goals in 29 appearances.
He continues to captain the Portuguese team and score vital goals for the side.
Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the ‘greatest’ footballers in history.
With over a two-decade career, he has won 33 major trophies, including five UEFA Champions League titles, seven league titles across England, Spain, and Italy, and the UEFA Euro 2016 with Portugal.
He also holds the record for most goals in UEFA Champions League history (140) and is the all-time top scorer in international football with 136 goals for Portugal.
His total senior career goals stand at an astounding 935.
He has also won 5 Ballon d’Ors, 4 European Golden Boots, and multiple accolades, including FIFA Best Men’s Player and UEFA Best Player in Europe awards.
The Ghana national team will begin preparations for the upcoming Unity Cup on Sunday, May 25, the Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, Dr. Randy Abbey, has confirmed.
Speaking during an appearance on 3Sports on May 23, Dr Randy Abbey shared key details about the team’s schedule.
He said “We had a meeting with the management committee, and the team will assemble in London on the 25th,” he said.
“They would have three training sessions before the first game on the 28th against Nigeria”.
Despite the ongoing seasons for many Ghanaian players across Europe’s top leagues, Dr. Abbey shared key details about the team’s schedule during an interview with 3Sports.
He also spoke on the challenges with the squad’s availability, citing clubs’ unwillingness to release some players due to their schedules and also issues of player injury.
“There are quite a number of players who are injured. There are a few players who are also engaged in qualifying games for Europe, and so their clubs won’t release them. Mind you, this period is outside the FIFA free period.
“And so, for those whose leagues will still be in session, and they are still in contention, they might not be available, plus the injured players,” he added.
The senior national team is scheduled to participate in a four-nation tournament that features Nigeria, Jamaica, Trinidad, and Tobago in the United Kingdom later this month.
The four-day tournament is set to begin from the 28th to the 30th of this month, with Ghana set to face long-time West African rivals Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the semifinal.
The tournament would be played at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, with kickoff at 19:00 GMT.
The winner of that encounter will qualify for the final slated for May 31, with a 12:30 GMT kick-off, to take on either Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago.
The Unity Cup fixtures serve as a key part of Ghana’s preparations for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Black Stars will resume qualifiers in September with games against Chad and Mali, before wrapping up with fixtures against Comoros and the Central African Republic in October.
Real Madrid captain Luka Modric has announced that he will go his separate ways with the Catalan giants after the Club World Cup, which runs from June 18 to July 13.
Modric will play his final match at Real’s Bernabeu home when they welcome Real Sociedad on Saturday in their final La Liga game of the season.
Taking to his Instagram page, the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner shared a warm message recounting the ‘impossible moments’ turned possible with the help of every teammate, fan, and club management.
“The time has come. The moment I never wanted to come, but that’s football, and in life everything has a beginning and an end… On Saturday I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Leaving with a full heart. Filled with pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. And even though, after the Club World Cup, I’m no longer going to wear this shirt on the field, I’ll always be a Madrid fan.
Throughout these years I’ve experienced incredible moments, comebacks that seemed impossible, finals, celebrations and magical nights at the Bernabéu… We won it all, and I was very happy. Very, very happy.
We’ll see each other again. Real Madrid will always be my home for a lifetime,” he posted.
Real Madrid, he said, has impacted his life as a football player and as a person.
He continued by extending his gratitude to the club president, Florentino Pérez, and all the coaches, staff, and fans as well for their support during his 12-year stint at Santiago Bernabéu.
“I am proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history.”
I want to thank the club from the bottom of my heart, especially the president, Florentino Perez, my teammates, coaches, and all the people who have helped me during all this time.
The Croat has won 28 trophies, including six Champions Leagues and four domestic titles, since joining Real from Spurs in 2012.
“I arrived in 2012 with the hope of wearing the jersey of the best team in the world and the ambition to do great things, but I couldn’t have imagined what came next,” he said.
“Playing for Real Madrid changed my life as a footballer and as a person.
“I’m proud to have been part of one of the most successful eras of the best club in history.”
Luka’s contract would have expired last year; however, he signed for an extension that expires at the end of the season this year.
Luka Modrić joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012. Since his joining Real Madrid, he has made 590 appearances for the club and scored 43 goals.
Hailed as one of the most decorated players in the club’s history, Modrić has won 28 major titles with Real Madrid. He has won 6 UEFA Champions League titles, 6 FIFA Club World Cups, 5 UEFA Super Cups, 5 Spanish Super Cups, 4 La Liga titles, and 2 Copa del Rey titles.
His outstanding performance earned him the 2018 Ballon d’Or.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid has reacted to Modric’s Instagram post. “🤍 THANK YOU. | GRACIAS 🤍,” the post read.
His former teammate and Al-Nassr star, Cristiano Ronaldo, also reacted, saying, “Thank you for everything, Luka! ❤️ It’s been an honor to share so many moments with you at the club. Much success in what’s to come!
CR 7 reacts to Luka Modric’s departure message
In the same development, Real Madrid’s current coach, Ancelotti, is also set to depart after the season ends.
Real Madrid have officially confirmed the departure of Carlo Ancelotti by the season’s end.
The Italian coach is set to bid farewell to fans and the club after their last game of the season against Real Sociedad on Saturday, May 24.
In a statement from the club shared on Friday, the Spanish giants expressed their gratitude to the coach, hailing him as one of the greatest the club has had in the over-a-century-old club.
“Real Madrid C. F. and Carlo Ancelotti have reached an agreement to end his time as Real Madrid coach. Our club would like to express its gratitude and affection to one of the great legends of Real Madrid and world football.
“Carlo Ancelotti has led our team through one of the most successful periods in our 123 years of existence and has become the coach with the most titles in our history: Three European Cups, three Club World Cups, three European Super Cups, two leagues, two Copa del Reys, and two Spanish Super Cups. In total, 15 titles during the six seasons in which he has belonged to our club,” parts of the statement read.
The club’s president, Florentino Perez, added, “Carlo Ancelotti will forever be part of the great Madridista family.
“We feel incredibly honoured to have had the chance to enjoy a coach who has helped us achieve so much success but who has also embodied our club’s values in such exemplary fashion.”
Reacting to the club’s official announcement, Ancelotti thanked all members of the club, highlighting the hard work and memories created together at Bernabeu, labeling it as now a part of “football history.
He, however, acknowledged that though a new journey begins, his “bond with Real Madrid is eternal. See you soon, Madridistas.”
He wrote in a social media post, “Today we part ways again. Once again I take in my heart every moment lived in this wonderful second spell as Real Madrid coach
“They have been unforgettable years, an incredible journey full of emotions, titles, and, above all, the pride of representing this badge.
“Thanks to the president, Florentino Perez, to the club, to my players, to my staff, and, above all, to this unique fan base that has always made me feel like one of them.
“What we have achieved together will remain forever in the memory of Real Madrid fans, not only for the triumphs, but for the way we achieved them. The magical nights of the Bernabeu are now football history.
“Now a new adventure begins, but my bond with Real Madrid is eternal. See you soon, Madridistas.”
Ancelotti’s current deal with Real was set to expire in June 2026; however, he is set to depart Madrid soon.
He leaves the Santiago Bernabéu as one of Real Madrid’s most successful managers, leading the team to secure 15 trophies during his two stints as head coach of the club.
Last season Real Madrid, under the coaching of Ancelotti, won both the Champions League and the Spanish La Liga title.
However, amid his successful stint with the club, Sunday’s El Clasico defeat left Real seven points behind leaders Barcelona with three games remaining.
This suggests that Real will end the season without a trophy for the first time in four years.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced that it has officially ended negotiations with Chinese broadcaster StarTimes in relation to the renewal of its media broadcast rights agreement.
This comes after GFA and StarTimes failed to reach an agreement on contract extension after the 2024/2025 season following negotiations in March 2025.
In a statement dated May 23, the football governing body confirmed that talks to renew the contract with the broadcaster.
Consequently, the GFA has formally requested StarTimes to reimburse it an outstanding amount of USD 842,173.36, which it says is due under the previous agreement.
The association has engaged legal counsel and initiated formal procedures to recover the debt.
“The Association remains committed to securing a transparent, fair, and mutually beneficial media partnership that aligns with the interests of our clubs, the Association, and our stakeholders,” the GFA stated.
The termination of talks with StarTimes marks a significant development in the GFA’s ongoing efforts to establish new broadcast arrangements for Ghanaian football.
It would be recalled that in February this year, Majority Leader in Parliament Mahama Ayariga revealed that Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams is set to initiate discussions with SuperSport regarding potential broadcasting rights for the Ghana Premier League.
StarTimes has been GFA’s partner for the past seven years (since 2017).
StarTimes is a Chinese electronics and media company that operates in Sub-Saharan Africa. The company provides digital terrestrial television (DTT) and satellite television services to consumers. It also helps countries and broadcasters transition from analog to digital television.
StarTimes expanded into Africa in 2002 and has since established operations in over 30 African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Africa. As of 2020, the company had 13 million DVB subscribers and 20 million OTT users.
In addition to broadcasting, StarTimes has developed StarTimes ON, a video streaming service, and StarTimes GO, an interactive online shopping platform. The company has also been involved in digital migration projects across Africa, working with governments to improve access to digital TV
Legal counsel for suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has rejected calls for the proceedings related to the counsel’s removal to be held in camera.
The immediate-past Attorney-General and Minister for Justice has requested a public hearing, insisting that all matters related to his client’s suspension have already been made public, subjecting her to intense public scrutiny.
Mr Godfred Dame, who spoke in an interview yesterday, Thursday, May 22, citing transparency and fairness, said, “It cannot be a secret. There ought to be light on the proceeding because she has already been damaged in the public domain. There is nothing that threatens public harm, public order, or public safety in this proceeding such as to warrant that it should be in the dark or in camera.”
“On the contrary, the conduct of the government so far, together with what has been witnessed in the whole of proceedings, will rather require that it ought to be in the public,” he said.
He made these remarks in response to calls by some individuals, such as Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim, who has defended the in-camera hearing decision, citing Article 146 (10) of the Constitution, which mandates confidentiality in such hearings.
Shamima Muslim insists that this provision is not optional but a legal requirement meant to protect the judiciary, petitioners, and the integrity of the process.
Presently, there are ongoing legal disputes surrounding Justice Gertrude Torkornoo’s suspension.
Background
A series of petitions have been filed against Chief Justice Torkornoo, beginning with one from a group known as Shining Stars of Ghana.
The group alleges she violated Article 144 of the Constitution by personally recommending judges for promotion to the Supreme Court and further claims she ruled on a case involving the Speaker of Parliament without granting him a hearing, despite his refusal to respond to the suit.
Another petition from a police officer who is also a lawyer accuses the Chief Justice of manipulating evidence and abusing her authority following an incident during a Supreme Court session where he was reportedly reprimanded, arrested, and detained. However, court records suggest the lawyer’s conduct during proceedings prompted a unanimous caution from the bench, not just from the Chief Justice.
A third petition, submitted by a private individual, lists 21 alleged misconducts and four claims of incompetence. Among the accusations is the misuse of public funds—specifically, that she spent over GH¢261,000 and $30,000 on a family trip abroad in 2023 and misused an additional GH¢75,580 and $14,000 during another foreign assignment without proper accountability.
Subsequent reports indicate two more petitions have been added to the list, intensifying pressure on the judiciary.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, in her written response to President Mahama, strongly denied allegations of misconduct and abuse of office brought against her by a senior police officer, describing them as baseless and lacking grounds for her removal from office.
A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The committee is chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Associate Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.
Legal matters arising
Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Ekow Vincent Assafuah, has moved to challenge the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, filing an application at the Supreme Court to injunct the presidential decision.
The notice of motion, dated April 24, is a direct response to President John Dramani Mahama’s April 22 suspension of the Chief Justice, which was carried out in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution after consultations with the Council of State and a determination that a prima facie case existed.
According to Mr Assafuah, the process that led to the Chief Justice’s suspension violated constitutional provisions, as she was not informed of the petitions nor given an opportunity to respond before the President engaged the Council of State.
He further described the actions taken thus far, including the formation of an investigative committee, as “a farce and the product of a preconceived orchestration to unconstitutionally remove the Chief Justice from office.”
Ekow Vincent Assafuah filed an injunction application to halt the process for the removal of the Chief Justice; however, this application was also dismissed by the Supreme Court on May 6.
The second interlocutory injunction application challenging the process for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo from office has been thrown out by the apex court.
The Supreme Court, by a 4 to 1 majority decision, deemed the application by a private citizen, Theodore Kofi Atta-Quartey, unmeritorious on Wednesday, May 21.
The five-member panel comprised Justices Paul Baffoe-Bonnie (Presiding), Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Yonny Kulendi, Henry Anthony Kwofie, and Yaw Asare Darko. Justice Yaw Asare Darko was the only one who disagreed with the majority’s opinion.
Justice Torkornoo heads to court
Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has headed to the Supreme Court to prevent the committee set up by President John Mahama to probe the petitions seeking her removal from office.
She is also requesting the apex court to halt her suspension issued by the President under Article 146(10) of the Constitution until a final determination is made on the matter.
On Wednesday, May 21, her legal team at Dame and Partners filed an interlocutory injunction application.
The defendants per the writ, are Attorney-General Dr Dominic Ayine, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Daniel Yao Domelovo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah.
The plaintiff has prayed the apex court to restrain the committee from proceeding with any further inquiry as well as prevent Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, the acting Chief Justice, from participating in the process.
Experts react to Torkornoo’s suit
A former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, believes that Justice Torkornoo should have first sought counsel from the Judicial Council before heading to the apex court.
“The Judicial Council has been established to aid successive Chief Justices to behave themselves. So if an incumbent Chief Justice has a problem, her first port of call should be to seek counsel. I don’t think that has been done,” he said.
Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, described the suspended Chief Justice’s move as interesting.
“I’m happy that the suspended Chief Justice is going to have the benefit of how the justice system works. Just like any one of us, her leadership may need the benefits of the very justice she, together with others, over the years, delivered to people,” he said while engaging the media in an interview.
The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has urged the Ghana Education Service (GES) to review disciplinary measures in schools to nip in the bud the rising levels of indiscipline and violence.
Their request follows growing indiscipline among students, especially in Senior High Schools (SHSs).
A very recent case is the busting of a student of Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School (OKESS) found in possession of a locally manufactured pistol on May 14, 2025.
In light of this, the group, in a statement, has suggested some rules for the GES to approve and announce their enforcement to help regulate the conduct of students nationwide.
GES, according to NAGRAT, has until May 31 of this year to do so accordingly or risk dealing with the “series of actions that will ensure that teachers are protected in our schools” by June 1.
They suggested the following:
Public announcement by the Director-General of GES empowering school authorities to immediately dismiss any student who attacks or causes physical injury of any kind to a teacher or any member of staff.
Any student found in possession of any weapon of any kind or shape should be immediately dismissed.
School authorities must be given the power to repeat students who have performed below the academic threshold without recourse to higher authority. The National Council of NAGRAT calls on the Director-General of GES to make these pronouncements public by the 31st of May, 2025. If by the 1st of June, 2025, the GES fails to make these pronouncements, Council mandates the leadership of the Union to start a series of actions that will ensure that teachers are protected in our schools.
NAGRAT continued that schools are gradually becoming unsafe for both students and teachers, likewise with the alarming presence of weapons such as guns and machetes.
Citing examples, NAGRAT mentioned Mr. Walter Yesotor Adanunyo of Christian Methodist High School, who was attacked for preventing students from cheating during exams, and Mr. Ebenezer Kateya of Accra High School, who was assaulted for enforcing dress code rules.
The group also referenced a student at OKESS who was recently caught with a firearm.
NAGRAT attributed the rise in violence to several key issues:
Admission of students who failed the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE)
Political interference in school disciplinary processes
The inability of school authorities to repeat underperforming students
Bureaucratic challenges in removing disruptive students
“The situation is deteriorating fast. If not addressed, we fear we will soon hear of deaths, rape, and extreme violence in our schools,” the statement warned.
To combat the crisis, NAGRAT’s National Council is demanding the implementation of the following measures:
A public directive from the GES Director-General empowering school authorities to immediately dismiss any student who assaults a teacher or staff member.
Automatic dismissal of any student found in possession of a weapon.
Authority for school heads to repeat students who fail to meet academic standards, without needing approval from higher authorities.
It would be recalled that the Ghana Education Service (GES) officially banned corporal punishment in schools in 2017 under the Akufo-Addo-led government and the education minister, Dr Yaw Adutwum, citing that the move was part of efforts to promote a safe and protective learning environment for students.
GES, after two years, ordered that a Positive Discipline Toolkit, which provides alternatives to corporal punishment, be adopted by all teachers.
However, some critics have argued that the ban lacks legislative backing, as Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) still allows reasonable force for correction.
The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) conducted a study on indiscipline in Ghanaian senior high schools, published in November 2024. The research found that indiscipline had increased following the ban on corporal punishment.
They cited limited disciplinary options, overcrowding, and inadequate facilities coupled with their effects of reduced teacher authority and potential long-term consequences.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has congratulated Tottenham Hotspur for winning the Europa League on Wednesday, May 21.
He highlighted that a team winning a trophy should not be a yardstick to measure or judge its success in a season.
His comments come after 17th-placed Spurs ended the season on a high note as they won the European trophy.
However, Arteta’s side, who are second in the Premier League behind champions Liverpool, will finish without any silverware this term.
“They are [Europa League] champions, and when you get to that, you have to do a lot of things right. I think they’re going through a season with a lot of obstacles and difficulties. And they have, at the end… A beautiful moment,” Arteta said.
In response to a question regarding the best performance among the two clubs (Arsenal and Spurs), Arteta snubbed a direct answer, noting his responsibility to analyze his side rather than compare it with other teams’ performances.
“I don’t like to compare with other teams. I need to analyze my team; that’s my job,” Arteta, who led Arsenal to the Champions League semifinals, said.
Arteta added that a team should not be judged solely on their trophy count in a season, citing the example of his own side, who have never won the Champions League and have not lifted the Premier League trophy since 2003-04.
“Where is the joy then? Because then if I have to analyse ourselves … We have failed the last 20 years in the Premier League, and we have failed in all our history in the Champions League,” Arteta said.
“Who are we then? Where is our brand? where is our club? Where is our value, our way of playing? Where are the moments that we lived together with our people?”
Arteta said Arsenal, who have conceded only 33 league goals so far this season, seven fewer than Liverpool, were motivated to finish with the best defensive record in the top flight as they end their campaign at relegated Southampton on Sunday.
“We want to have as many points as possible. We still want to achieve the best defensive record … Finish the season on a high,” he added.
Manchester United’s Ruben Amorim is expected to keep his job, as the club management has decided to retain him as coach.
According to sources, he is expected to lead the club despite defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final and a poor run of form in his debut season.
Man Utd lost to ‘struggling’ Spurs in a 0-1 clash in Bilbao on Wednesday.
The defeat has cost Amorim’s side a place in the Champions League next season, also denying the Portuguese coach a trophy in his first season.
United’s failure to secure a spot in Europe’s elite competition marks only the second time in the last 35 years, with a similar outcome occurring in 1990.
Also, sources have it that the security of Amorim’s job was not dependent on the outcome at Estadio de San Mamés.
The club management insists the 40-year-old is the right man for the job, despite his disastrous performance this season.
Manchester United has had a damaging season in the Premier League, currently sitting in 16th place with 39 points.
Their form has been poor, with 10 wins, 9 draws, and 18 losses across 37 matches.
They have struggled to score, managing only 42 goals, while conceding 54
Plans are already in place to strengthen the squad in the summer.
However, given the club’s current financial status, which also already informed some major cost-cutting initiatives, such as scrapping the sponsorship of more than two player relatives’ family tickets.
It also embarked on major job cuts; missing out on a potential £100 million ($134m) in Champions League revenue is set to affect the club’s flexibility in the transfer window.
This is something Amorim expressed worry about during his post-match news conference following the defeat to Tottenham.
“We have two plans for the market, and we have to understand it is tough for a club like ours not to be in the Champions League,” Amorim said.
“But we have to use the other side. We have more time to work during the week on the Premier League, and that will be our focus.”
Following the disappointment at Bilbao, Amorim is ready to quit voluntarily without compensation if the board decides to change managers.
The United boss, according to sources, expects fans to support the Portuguese coach and the club as they prepare for their final game of the season against Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Ghana international Tariq Lamptey is likely to leave Brighton & Hove Albion this summer, as his contract nears expiration and no extension talks are currently underway.
He is again anticipated to miss their final game of the season against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday due to an injury.
Since joining the Seagulls, Tariq has suffered several injuries.
Tariq joined the Seagulls in 2020 on a four-year contract and has become a key figure for the side, but he has had limited play time due to injury setbacks.
Just months after joining the club, he recorded his first injury (hamstring) at Brighton in a match against Everton on October 4, 2020, an injury in October 2020.
This sidelined him for 14 days, causing him to miss five matches.
The Ghanaian full-back has endured an injury-hit season, making just 15 appearances in the 2024/2025 Premier League season, where he scored two goals and provided two assists.
He has made 20 appearances so far across all competitions, notching 5 goals for the Seagulls.
In January, Lamptey came close to joining Dutch giants Ajax, but the proposed move ultimately collapsed.
With his contract nearing its end and no renewal in sight, the 23-year-old could be on the move when the transfer window opens in June.
About Tariq Lamptey
Born on September 30, 2000, in Hillingdon, England, Tariq Lamptey started his football journey at Chelsea’s academy, where he developed and shaped his skills.
Rising through the ranks, he secured a place with Chelsea, where he made his Premier League debut in December 2019.
However, in January 2020, he signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with Brighton.
The Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association (FUSSAG), and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association (FUSSAG) have announced an indefinite industrial action.
The strike took effect on Wednesday, May 21. Addressing the media yesterday was National Chairman of the Senior Staff Association George Ansong.
“The Technical Universities Administrators Association of Ghana (TUWAG) and the Federation of University Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSAG) announce, with deep regret but unwavering resolve, our decision to embark on an indefinite strike action,” he stated.
The move stems from the failure of both the former and current governments to honor a six-month-old agreement aimed at improving their conditions of service.
Mr George Ansong continued to fume over the lack of government response following countless engagements, citing that until the government responds to their demands and takes action, the unions will remain on strike.
“The government has continuously reneged on its commitment, thereby undermining the trust and cooperation that should exist between both parties,” he added.
The erstwhile government led by Akufo-Addo reached an agreement with the SSA-UoG on November 12, 2024, after negotiations that began on April 9, 2024.
The agreement was meant to improve their conditions of service, and the government was expected to fulfill its commitments within six months, meaning by May 2025.
However, the incumbent government failed to meet the deadline, leading to the industrial action.
This is not the first time the Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG) has gone on strike for similar reasons.
The last time they took such action was in January 2024, during the Akufo-Addo-led administration.
That strike was triggered by poor working conditions and the government’s failure to pay certain allowances and arrears.
Data from the central bank of Ghana has confirmed former Vice President Dr. Bawumia’s claims that the Mahama-led government hasn’t added even a single tonne of gold to the country’s reserves since it began its tenure.
He made these claims during a recent address to the Young Executive Forum in London on Monday, 19 May.
“Sixty-five years after independence, we had only 8.7 tonnes of gold reserves. But in just two years, we increased that to 30 tonnes—a significant buffer for our currency. Since the NDC took over, they haven’t added even one tonne.”
An analysis of data from the Bank of Ghana corroborates this claim.
However, some political figures and analysts challenged the broader narrative surrounding Ghana’s gold reserves and economic policies.
Ghana’s gold reserves stood at 8.78 tonnes as of the end of May 2023.
However, the reserve saw a sharp rise in December 2024 with an increase of over 21.75 tonnes.
Since the NDC assumed office in January 2025, growth in gold reserves has been modest.
By end-April 2025, reserves had inched up to 31.37 tonnes, marking a net addition of 0.84 tonnes—below the one-tonne threshold cited by Dr. Bawumia.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has announced the club’s plans to give young prodigy Lamine Yamal “special treatment” as talks are underway for a long-term contract with the 17-year-old forward.
Joan Laporta made these comments in an interview with TV3 on Monday, 19 May.
“It’s been discussed, but it’s not signed. Lamine’s a great player, an extraordinary person, and is already very mature,” Laporta told TV3 when asked for an update on negotiations to prolong the forward’s contract.
“He’s grown up here, he’s Catalan, and he’s a Barça fan. He’s happy in Barcelona and is destined to be the best player in the world,” he added.
Yamal’s current deal with Barça would expire in 2026, with the club anticipating penning a long-term contract with him when he turns 18 in July.
Discussions between both parties, according to Laporta, look promising so far emphasizing that “There are good feelings with his representatives and with his family. His agent, [Jorge] Mendes, advises him well. It will end well.”
ESPN previously reported the Catalan club wants to tie Lamine Yamal down to longer terms when he turns 18 in July.
Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal has played a critical role in the final months of the season, helping the Spanish giants win a treble—LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercopa.
He scored 18 goals and 25 assists across all competitions.
Real Madrid and England midfielder Jude Bellingham will be out for the first 6 weeks of next season as he is scheduled to undergo shoulder surgery.
The English midfielder has faced persistent shoulder issues for the past two years, causing him to wear a brace when playing for both clubs and the national team.
He picked up the shoulder injury during a clash against Rayo Vallecano in 2023, which cost him two games for both Madrid and England at the end of 2023.
Consequently, Real Madrid have scheduled a surgery for Bellingham after the Club World Cup, which is expected to take place in the United States, is over.
The expanded 32-team Club World Cup takes place in the United States between 15 June and 13 July.
Due to the surgery, Jude is anticipated to miss the whole of the preseason, which would also mean being absent for England’s World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia in September.
Meanwhile, on Friday, England boss Thomas Tuchel will name his England squad for June’s qualifier against Andorra and friendly against Senegal, with questions remaining about whether or not players due to play in the Club World Cup will be selected.
About Jude Bellingham and his evolution in football
At age 16, Jude made his senior debut, becoming the club’s youngest-ever first-team player at Birmingham City in 2019–2020.
He later moved to Borussia Dortmund in 2020, where he spent 3 years rising to the status of one of Europe’s best midfielders, winning the DFB-Pokal and earning the Bundesliga Player of the Season award in 2022–23.
In June 2023, Jude moved to Real Madrid. Bellingham has continued to shine, helping the club win La Liga and the Champions League in his debut season, where he scored 23 goals in 43 appearances.
This season, though, he has scored just 14 in 52, with Madrid losing the title to Barcelona and being knocked out of Europe in the quarter-finals by Arsenal.
Interim head coach of Dreams FC, Winfred Dormon, says his future at the club lies in the hands of the management.
Speaking after his side’s 4-1 defeat to Kotoko on Sunday, May 18, he noted that he is committed to the task at hand but uncertain about his long-term future.
“I must manage the rest of the games and make sure I keep preparing my team. That decision is up to management to make, not me,” he said.
Dreams FC have three more matches to go for then—against Berekum Chelsea, Accra Lions, and Legon Cities.
Dormon admitted that all three fixtures will be challenging, given the stakes for each team.
Berekum Chelsea is slated for Saturday, 25 May, followed by Accra Lions on Sunday, 1 June, and finally Legon Cities on Sunday, 8 June.
“We have three remaining games to play—Berekum Chelsea, who are very difficult to play; Accra Lions, who are also battling with relegation; and we also have Legon Cities.
So, we need to look forward and focus on those games. So that decision is in the bosom of the management,” he added.
Dreams FC currently sit 9th on the Ghana Premier League table with 43 points from 31 games.
They will host Berekum Chelsea in their Matchday 32 fixture this weekend at the Tuba Astro Turf.
Dormon was appointed to step in after Abdul Karim Zito left by choice to take on the new challenge at Kotoko in April to take over from Prosper Narteh Ogum.
Dormon was first appointed a head coach for Dreams FC in June 2019. However, following some club restructuring, he was later reduced to being an assistant to Finnish trainer Juha Pasoja.
He also was an assistant to Karim Zito, Vladislav Viric, and Ignatius Osei-Fosu.
Since stepping in for Zito, Dormon has supervised two matches—a 2-1 away victory against Karela United and the weekend’s loss to Kotoko.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has unveiled a list of players in the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming 2025 Unity Cup, slated for the last week of this month.
The list features several key players like Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, midfield stalwarts Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka and an attack side led by Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon.
Surprisingly, some big names such as Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, Joe Aribo, and Calvin Bassey, and Ademola Lookman of Atalanta have been left out of the lineup.
The Super Eagles will face their long-standing rivals, Ghana, in the semifinals of the tournament.
The much-anticipated encounter will take place on Tuesday, May 28, at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, with kickoff scheduled for 19:00 GMT.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to participate in a four-nation tournament that features Ghana, Jamaica, Trinidad, and Tobago in the United Kingdom later this month.
The four-day tournament is set to begin from the 28th to the 30th of this month, with Ghana set to face long-time West African rivals Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the semifinal.
The winner of that encounter will qualify for the final slated for May 31, with a 12:30 GMT kick-off, to take on either Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s head coach, Otto Addo, is expected to release his final squad for the tournament in the coming days.
Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, made this known during an interview on Akoma FM on Saturday, May 17.
He added that preparations are already underway, with new players joining the squad, and encouraged Ghanaians to expect the changes without surprise.
Former Spain and Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina has announced his retirement from football.
The 42-year-old Spaniard, during an interview with Spanish broadcaster Movistar Plus+ on May 20, said he will retire at the end of the season.
Reina said he made this decision following discussions with his wife.
“A very beautiful career is coming to an end, a very full life. I feel very fortunate for what I’ve experienced,”
“Didn’t expect it, but I think the time has come, and I feel like bringing it to a close here,” he said.
His farewell match is scheduled for May 23, when his current club, Como, faces Inter Milan in the last round of the Serie A season.
A product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, he spent eight seasons at Liverpool, where he won the FA Cup and League Cup.
He also earned the Premier League Golden Glove award for most clean sheets in his first three seasons with the club, from the 2005/06 to 2007/08 season.
He later rose through the ranks to sign for Bayern Munich, Napoli, and AC Milan.
In July 2024, he joined his current club, Como, in July last year, making 11 appearances in the current Serie A season.
He made 36 appearances for Spain and was part of the squad that won the World Cup in 2010 as well as the European Championship in 2008 and 2012.
Meanwhile, Reina is not bowing out of football completely; he intends to move into coaching.
Kevin de Bruyne ended his stint with Man City on an exciting note, as his club secured a 3-1 victory against Bournemouth, cementing their place in the Champions League next season.
City suffered a 0-1 defeat to Crystal Palace in Saturday’s FA Cup final, and being sixth on the Premier League table, they desperately needed a win to help them secure a place in Europe’s premier club competition.
Pep Guardiola’s men now sit third, in a strong position heading into Sunday’s last game of the season at Fulham (16:00 BST), where at least a draw should be enough to ensure a return to the Champions League table.
This win for City was a significant one for the club, as it marked City legend De Bruyne’s final home game until his contract ends in summer. He had to finally bid his fans farewell.
Kevin got emotional after his teammates gave him a guard of honor with fans chanting his name and watching a montage on the big screen.
A special mosaic dedicated to De Bruyne was unveiled and the player will be getting a statue too
BBC Radio’s Natalie Pike, during an engagement with De Bruyne, asked him how he was feeling; he responded, “Ummm, very emotional.”
He was then allowed to put himself together while he tried to hold back his tears.
On the other hand, after the cameras panned to City’s Pep Guardiola, he was captured with tears running down his cheeks.
“Manchester is home; Manchester is where these little kids were born (his three children).
“I came here with my wife, Michele, and we didn’t expect to be here ten years, to do what we have done as a club, with the supporters, my teammates.
“We’ve won everything. We’ve made the club bigger, and now they’re going to take over.”
De Bruyne has scored 108 goals in 421 City appearances, the first City midfielder since Colin Bell to hit triple figures, while also piling up 177 assists.
De Bruyne leaves City as a club and Premier League legend
During his ten-year stay, De Bruyne became City’s most successful player, winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, the Champions League, the Super Cup, and the Club World Cup.
“I wanted to play with creativity; I wanted to play with passion,” he said. “I wanted to enjoy football, and I hope, I think, everybody enjoyed it.
Kevin also revealed in the interview that, a statue would be made in honour of him at Etihad stadium for his stellar contributions in the last decade.
Pep Guardiola has expressed frustration over Man City’s swelling squad, which is affecting player selection.
He has threatened to quit as Manchester City manager if the club gives him a huge squad size to select from next summer.
Speaking during a post-match conference after Manchester City’s 3-1 victory against Bournemouth, he aired this grievance.
“I said to the club I don’t want that [a bigger squad]. I don’t want to leave five or six players in the freezer. I don’t want that. I will quit. Make a shorter squad, and I will stay.”
A number of Man City’s senior players were not included in the squad for Tuesday’s 3-1 win against Bournemouth, and Guardiola says he is unhappy at leaving so many players out.
Abdukodir Khusanov, Savinho, James McAtee, Claudio Echeverri, and Rico Lewis all missed out on Tuesday’s 20-man matchday squad as City moved to third in the Premier League and within a point of Champions League qualification.
He expressed that it’s “not in my soul” to tell players they won’t be playing.
Guardiola says it is “impossible for my soul” to leave players watching from the stands.
“Maybe [for] three or four months we couldn’t select 11 players; we didn’t have defenders; it was so difficult. After people come back, but next season it cannot be like that,” the 54-year-old added.
“As a manager, I cannot train 24 players, and every time I select, I have to have four, five, or six stay in Manchester at home because they cannot play. This is not going to happen. I said to the club. I don’t want that.”
When asked if it meant more exits were inevitable, Guardiola – who signed a deal keeping him at the club until 2027 – said, “It is a question for the club. I don’t want to have 24, 25, or 26 players when everyone is fit. If I have injuries, unlucky, we have some players for the academy, and we do it.”
Guardiola said a big squad is unsustainable and that it is important for “the soul of the team” that his players “create another connection with each other that this season we lost it a bit.”
Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo has warned traders against returning to the streets.
Speaking to the media yesterday, May 20, after the exercise, she noted that culprits will pay a fine within the range of GHC1,500 and GHC2,000.
“We are going to reactivate our task force so that they will be working 24 hours a day. They are going to draw red lines in between the roads so that when you cross the line. There’s a fee that you have to pay, GHC1,500, with a maximum of GHC2,000. So that next time, you wouldn’t cross the line,” she said.
The 3-day decongestion exercise carried out by the Accra Municipal Assembly, targeting street traders in the country’s capital, Accra, is set to resume today, Wednesday, May 21, following a successful Day 1.
However, some traders have expressed their intention to return despite the decongestion exercise.
Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, also assured that the operation will persist until the roads are fully cleared of vendors occupying the pavements.
He acknowledged that the ongoing activity is not a short-term measure but one that will remain in place.
“This exercise is not a nine-day wonder; we are on the street till we make sure that the roads are clear. We are not done. For the next hour, we are going back to the street. From here we are going to Circle, and if there is more strength, we will go to Kaneshie. Then we continue tomorrow,” the mayor stated.
Despite concerns by some of the traders who sought to counter the decongestion exercise, a section of the traders lauded the Accra Mayor and the AMA task force for undertaking the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District.
“Thank you for the exercise. God bless you. These people are killing business. We rent expensive stores and pay AMA bills,” a trader stated.
Amid the concerns raised by affected traders, the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA) has declared strong support for the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s ongoing decongestion campaign in the Central Business District (CBD).
The initiative, a collaboration between the AMA and the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, forms part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility and ease congestion in the city.
The first phase of the exercise launched on Tuesday, targeting areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.
Prior to the decongestion exercise yesterday, the Accra mayor engaged traders, urging them to leave the streets voluntarily.
The issues of congestion compelled the transport operators to threaten a strike action against the government and the Ghana Police Service
They gave authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. However, the strike action was not executed.
According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.
They are demanding the immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements.
Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.
These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.
Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey and his family waved at fans after Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Newcastle United on May 18 at the Emirates Stadium.
This was after Declan Rice found the back of the net in the 55th minute, securing a crucial win over Newcastle that cemented their second spot in the Premier League table, booking qualification to the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League.
After the game, players shared moments with fans as it was their last home game.
Partey was spotted with his wife, a British-born model and social media influencer, Janine Mackson, who was carrying their baby, and his mother waving during the post-match celebrations.
The couple shared moments with some of the players and fans at the stadium, and after some time, they waved to the fans before finally departing the premises.
This has sparked mixed reactions from Arsenal fans who are concerned about the player’s future, as his contract expires at the end of the 2024/2025 season.
See some reactions below:
Fans react to Thomas Partey’s wave after Arsenal’s last home game of the season
Meanwhile, reports suggest that the English club is in negotiations with the Ghanaian midfielder to extend his contract following his impressive performances this season.
Barcelona is currently valuing other players as they announce withdrawal from the pursuit of Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.
The Spain forward of Ghanaian descent, Nico Williams, was on the radar of the current La Liga champions last summer; however, the president of FC Barcelona, Joan Laporta, has revealed that his side is no longer interested in Inaki Williams’ brother.
He said they have moved on.
“We valued Nico as a potential signing last summer with Dani Olmo, but right now I think the club is valuing other players,” Joan Laporta said, as quoted by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Also, he revealed that the club is going to see some reshuffles:
“There will be changes in our squad this summer. Our rivals will also strengthen because they have seen that our team is the best right now.”
Barcelona was considering a swoop for Nico Williams last summer following the forward’s stellar performance for his club, Athletic, and his national team, Spain.
During the Euro 2024, Nico won Man of the Match in Athletic’s clash with Italy, showcasing his speed, dribbling, and creativity.
Also, in the 2023/24 season, Williams scored 8 goals and 19 assists in 37 appearances for Athletic Bilbao.
His flawless passing accuracy, ability to create chances, and goal-scoring ability made him one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe.
Top clubs such as PSG, Arsenal, and Chelsea, among others, were interested in signing him.
Williams also had a release clause of €58 million, which made him an attractive target.
Amid all these links, he opted to stay at his club and signed a contract extension.
President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has been appointed as the new president of the West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B after the resignation of Kurt Okraku, who doubles as Ghana’s GFA head.
Kurt Okraku stepped down as WAFU head after assuming his new role as Confederation of African Football (CAF) Executive Committee member, where he now serves as the 2nd Vice President.
Combining these two roles, according to Kurt, would be unsustainable, as he still serves as Ghana’s current head of the Ghana Football Authority (GFA).
Gusau’s appointment was backed by member associations from various regions in Africa , given his rich experience in football.
His appointment is set to move to ensure stability while infusing fresh momentum into the leadership of the sub-regional football body.
He served as the chairman of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria and the Zamfara Football Association and has served on several CAF committees, including the Youth Organizing Committee.
Elected as the 40th NFF President during the federation’s 78th Elective Congress, Gusau succeeds Amaju Pinnick.
His appointment to lead WAFU B is expected to strengthen regional cooperation and drive football development across West Africa.
About WAFU
WAFU is a regional football management body that checks football development in West Africa.
Founded in 1975, it operates as a subregional body under the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Former Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye has urged Sports Minister Kofi Adams to put a stop to the payment of national team players in foreign currency, particularly in dollars.
Ghanaian internationals, especially the Black Stars and the Black Queens, over the years have been paid in dollars.
“…we must stop paying our players in foreign currencies,” he said.
During an appearance on GHOne TV on Monday, May 19, Mr Vanderpuye suggested that all players on the national teams should have a local bank account into which their salaries and allowances for their service are paid.
With the cedi being the legal tender in Ghana, the former sports minister is of the view that the players be paid in cedis.
“Every Black Stars and Black Queens player must have a local bank account,” he added.
Nii Lante Vandapuye’s term as a sports minister began on January 19, 2016, and ended on January 6, 2017.
President Mahama appointed him during a cabinet reshuffle to replace Dr. Mustapha Ahmed.
It is unclear whether this proposal will be adopted by the new Sports Minister, Kofi Adams.
This practice of players being paid in dollars dates back at least to the 2006 FIFA World Cup, when Black Stars players received $50,000 in appearance fees.
By 2010, this amount increased to $75,000, and in 2014, players demanded $100,000.
Also, salaries for Ghana Premier League (GPL) players in 2025 vary widely depending on the club and individual contracts.
While exact average figures are not readily available, some of the highest-paid players earn between GHS 18,000 and GHS 30,000 annually.
Monthly salaries for players in clubs like Hearts of Oak range from GHS 2,000 to GHS 3,000.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars is scheduled to participate in a four-nation tournament that features Nigeria, Jamaica, Trinidad, and Tobago in the United Kingdom later this month.
The four-day tournament is set to begin from the 28th to the 30th of this month, with Ghana set to face long-time West African rivals Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the semifinal.
The tournament would be played at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, with kickoff at 19:00 GMT.
The winner of that encounter will qualify for the final slated for May 31, with a 12:30 GMT kick-off, to take on either Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago.
Ghanaian commuters can anticipate some monetary relief as the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) announces an imminent reduction in transport fares.
This was made known by the Industrial Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Abass Imoro, during an interview with Channel One News on Monday, May 19, assuring Ghanaians of what he describes as a “smiley reduction.”
“The meeting is about the reduction in fares, so the public should rest assured that we will give them a smiley reduction,” Imoro added.
Conversations on transport fare reduction have become necessary at a time when the Ghanaian cedi has appreciated by 16% against major trading currencies, particularly the dollar, in the past days.
Fuel prices have also been affected by the dollar’s depreciation against the cedi .
Fuel prices have reduced twice since the beginning of the year, with the first recorded on January 16 and the second on May 16. In January, the prices of petrol declined by 3% and diesel prices by 1%.
The second significant reduction happened on May 16, with petrol prices falling by 6.7%–8.8%, diesel by 4%–6%, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) by approximately 10%.
Despite the cedi’s appreciation, many are questioning why prices of goods and services remain the same.
In reaction to these concerns, GPRTU said they have met with the Transport Ministry, with a final meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 20.
“It was a marathon meeting. The Transport Ministry is looking for some percentage, and the transport operators are also looking for some percentage.
Finally, we closed halfway. We are going back, and tomorrow we will come and meet them on the final decision,” he noted.
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo is expected to announce the team’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup this week.
This was confirmed by the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, during an interview on Akoma FM on Saturday, May 17.
“Possibly by next week, the coach will announce his team…” Mr Twum revealed.
He added that preparations are already underway, with new players joining the squad, and encouraged Ghanaians to expect the changes without surprise.
“I know the technical team is considering how to approach this Cup; there will be some fresh additions while keeping the core of the team,” he said.
He added that “…and if we have local players, they will join the local contingent and move directly to London to begin preparations,” he added.
Local media reports suggest that Asante Kotoko duo Andrews Ntim Manu and Kwame Opoku are likely to be included in the squad.
They could join Kamaradini Mamudu, Razak Simpson, and Ghana’s current first-choice goalkeeper, Benjamin Asare, in representing the country at the tournament.
The senior national team is scheduled to participate in a four-nation tournament that features Nigeria, Jamaica, Trinidad, and Tobago in the United Kingdom later this month.
The four-day tournament is set to begin from the 28th to the 30th of this month, with Ghana set to face long-time West African rivals Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the semifinal.
The tournament would be played at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, with kickoff at 19:00 GMT.
The winner of that encounter will qualify for the final slated for May 31, with a 12:30 GMT kick-off, to take on either Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago.
Ghanaian international Ibrahim Sulemana’s outstanding performance in Atalanta’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Genoa on Saturday, May 17, earned him the Man of the Match award in their Serie A clash.
The Ghanaian midfielder delivered a performance full of maturity, flair, and decisive impact at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, marking his second consecutive game with a goal — and this time, a truly spectacular one.
Making only his second league start of the season after suffering injuries earlier in the campaign, Sulemana has hit a form well befitting a 21-year-old.
Andrea Pinamonti scored to put Genoa ahead 1-0 in the 37th minute; however, just two minutes into the second half, Sulemana equalized for his side.
Controlling a lofted pass on his chest outside the box, he allowed the ball to bounce once before unleashing a fierce half-volley that rocketed into the far bottom corner.
Sulemana was quite instrumental in Atalanta’s comeback after Genoa took the lead in the 37th minute.
The midfielder controlled the tempo of the game, breaking Genoa’s attacks and distributing passes with precision.
His energy and intensity boosted Atalanta’s comeback, with a goal from Daniel Maldini and Mateo Retegui in the 62nd minute and 88th minute, respectively.
Ibrahim’s standout performance earned him the Man of the Match award, further cementing his reputation as one of Ghana’s brightest prospects.
Ibrahim Sulemana is Ghanaian. He was born in Sunyani, Ghana, and has represented the Ghana national team since 2024.
His recent performances for Atalanta have strengthened his case as a rising star for both club and country.
Manchester City’s head coach, Pep Guardiola, has expressed optimism about his team securing a spot in the Premier League top five.
Speaking during a news conference on Monday, May 19, ahead of City’s clash with Bournemouth on Tuesday, May 20, the Spanish coach said that he was “absolutely” confident of his side’s capability to qualify for Champions League football for next season.
“If we are not there [Champions League], then we don’t deserve it and will be in the Europa League. It is what it is.
“I am thinking we are going to qualify. My thoughts and the way I think — I think that. We need four points. That is the main target. I am absolutely confident of qualifying,” Guardiola told reporters.
Pep’s assertion comes on the back of his side’s current position on the Premier League table. With 65 points, City sits 6th with just a point lower than Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Aston Villa, who each have 66 points.
Importantly, City has a game in hand over these rivals, providing them with a crucial opportunity to climb the standings.
Speaking on his side’s defeat to Crystal Palace in Saturday’s clash, Pep noted that:
“We played a really good final, but not enough to win it. And we have the last two games; we need four points next year to be in the Champions League. This is enough, and everyone has to be aware of that,” Guardiola said.
“Newcastle won the Carabao Cup, Liverpool won the Premier League, and City won the Community Shield. The other teams didn’t win anything,” the Spaniard added.
Manchester City’s match against Bournemouth will be their last home game of the season.
After that, they will travel to play Fulham, who are in 10th place, for their final Premier League game on Sunday.
Pep is bent on winning the match, as it would mark Belgian playmaker Kevin De Bruyne’s last home game for City, as the 33-year-old midfielder is expected to part ways with the club after ten years of play.
He said, “This is what Kevin wants. Kevin will get what he deserves, and what he deserves is the best moment and the best compliment for his incredible trajectory.”
“We want to win the game so we can qualify for the Champions League next season; it couldn’t be otherwise.”
“I am going to decide what is best for us to win the game against Bournemouth, that is for sure,” Pep added.
Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne is uncertain about his participation in the upcoming Club World Cup over fears of sustaining an injury.
The attacking midfielder, whose contract is set to expire by the end of the season, would leave as a free agent.
Speaking in an interview during a discussion about his potential participation in the Club World Cup, Kevin said:
“I think in a way I have to take care of myself because if I get injured in the Club World Cup, what am I going to do?”
“Nobody’s going to take care of me at that point. So there’s a big chance probably I won’t play it, but I don’t know, maybe yes.”
With two games left to go this season, he said he had to consider what is best for his own career as he prepares for his next move.
“I have to take care of my family. I’ve got three kids and my wife; it’s not an easy process at this time,” he said.
However, his uncertainty about missing the Club World Cup has left a slim chance of his participation.
Many believe he could sign a short-term extension that would allow him to play in the newly expanded tournament in June and July.
The timing of the Club World Cup, which has been expanded from seven teams to 32, has led to FIFA introducing a short-term transfer window to enable players whose contracts expire on June 30 to move to clubs participating in the tournament.
It also allows players like De Bruyne to sign short-term deals purely to take part before moving on as free agents.
But that brings with it the risk of him suffering a serious injury that would jeopardize a future transfer.
Kevin De Bruyne has had an outstanding career at Manchester City, distinguishing himself as one of the best midfielders in the world.
He joined the club in 2015, and since then he has won 6 Premier League titles, a Champions League, and multiple domestic trophies.
Following his injury return in the 2024/25 season, De Bruyne made a total of 38 appearances across all competitions, scoring 6 goals and providing 8 assists.
He also scored 4 goals in the Premier League and assisted 7. However, he scored no goals in the Champions League after 7 matches.
In the FA Cup, he played four games and scored two goals.
After fourteen years with Man City, the 33-year-old is now considering his options but says there has been uncertainty over whether City wants him to be part of its squad for the Club World Cup in the United States.
Meanwhile, City hasn’t had the best season by far, as they gave up their Premier League title this season after four consecutive wins. De Bruyne said, though,
“This year has just not gone the way we wanted it to. You have to accept it. You have to move on and work hard and go again,” De Bruyne said.
“It’s alright. This doesn’t change anything that’s happened in the past 10 years.” De Bruyne said he has yet to decide on his next move and whether he would look to join another Premier League team”.
The eldest son of Cristiano Ronaldo, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., scored his first brace during a clash against Croatia to help Portugal U-15 clinch the 2025 Vlatko Markovic tournament title.
Coming off the bench in his first games and this time starting in a clash against Croatia, Ronaldo Jr. delivered a stunning performance, scoring his first-ever goal for the junior national team with a brilliant left-footed strike from a tight angle that the Croatian goalkeeper couldn’t save.
He scored his first goal barely 15 minutes into the game and replicated his father’s iconic “SIUU” celebration.
Croatia quickly equalized in the 27th minute. However, Cristiano Ronaldo rose again to secure Portugal’s lead in the 43rd minute, meeting a cross and nodding home a precise header.
Croatia responded quickly, leveling the score at 2-2 in the 60th minute, but Portugal secured the win with a late goal in the 78th minute by Rafael Cabral.
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. currently plays on the junior team of Al-Nassr, where his father plays professionally.
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. trained and played in the youth teams of Manchester United and Juventus. This helped develop and sharpen his football skills while growing up.
He also grew up under the influence of his famous father, Cristiano Ronaldo, who is one of the best footballers in history.
Former English footballer Jamie Carragher has blamed West Ham’s struggles in the 2024/2025 season on Ghanaian forward Mohammed Kudus’ form slump.
According to him, the Ghanaian player’s stellar performance in the 2023/2024 campaign—scoring many goals in both the Premier League and the Europa League and providing several assists—aided his club in securing a good position compared to his current lackluster performance in this campaign.
The Sky Sports pundit stated that Kudus’ dip in form this season has played a pivotal role in West Ham’s poor campaign in the Premier League, which is worrying.
“Well, I see there’s no doubt he’s a quality player who should be playing for a team closer to the top of the table, not near the bottom. But probably one of the reasons why West Ham are where they are this season is because he hasn’t shown the form that he showed last season.
“Last season, he looked fantastic; he just hasn’t looked the same player this season,” he said while speaking on Sky Sports on May 18, 2025.
It wouldn’t come as a surprise if West Ham sells the player in the next transfer window, Carragher added, emphasizing that “West Ham need the money.”
According to Carragher, the 24-year-old star is on the radar of several top clubs, and his current form may be the opportunity for these clubs to make a swoop.
Top clubs such as Arsenal and Liverpool have been reported to have interest in the Ghanaian striker.
“So, I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a change there in some way, because, as you said, West Ham needs the money. But other clubs might think this is an off-season for him.
“Last season was the real cue to say you can get that type of player; maybe it’s a good sign. So it might be the type of situation that maybe works for the two clubs,” he added.
The 24-year-old made a promising start to life in the Premier League following his switch from Ajax in 2023, contributing 14 goals and assists in his debut season.
However, his performances have dipped this campaign, with only four goals and two assists in 29 league appearances.
West Ham has had quite a challenging season, with 40 points from 37 matches. Currently they sit at 15th position on the Premier League table. Their record includes 10 wins, 10 draws, and 17 losses, with a goal difference of -18.
Recent performances have been inconsistent, with a mix of draws, losses, and a crucial win against Manchester United. Their struggles have been attributed to weak defense. They have conceded 61 goals in all while scoring 43.
The team in their last campaign finished 9th in the Premier League with stellar performance from Kudus who scored nine goals and provided six assists however, there has been a decline in form on the part of both club and player, which has seen them struggle in this season.
Ghanaian media personality and entertainment pundit Sally Mann has cautioned Afrobeat singer and 2024/2025 TGMA artiste of the Year, King Promise, to desist from picking up any “silent fight” with reggae and dancehall artist Stonebwoy or prepare himself for the collapse of his career.
She advised King Promise to “know his lane and stay there” and ignore the advice of people trying to influence his “loverboy” personality to a ‘street one’, warning that any attempt to disrespect the ‘street king’, Stonebwoy, could cause the premature end of his career.
“King Promise, you are young. We saw you come up with your Mr. Loverboy vibes—licking your lips, playing with your flap, saying you like sexy girls—while our ladies drooled over you. But now, it seems the people around you, your entourage, are beginning to influence you, shifting you from being the darling boy to stepping out into the streets.
Those around you, the ones influencing you to disrespect Stonebwoy by telling you that you’re a superstar and he’s not—take this advice from me, Sally Mann, Mamaga with the four eyes: your career will soon see its end if you try Bhim,” she warned.
She issued this caution during her Showtym show on Adom TV on Saturday, May 17, following King Promise’s failure to respond to Stonebwoy’s congratulatory message on X (formerly Twitter), which many interpreted as a sign of disrespect.
King Promise also refused to comment on it when he was asked about it during an appearance on Hitz FM.
She went on to advise King Promise to stay true to his brand, emphasizing the dominance and superiority of Stonebwoy’s brand over his and the need for him to respect that.
She said, “Bortey! I’m calling your name. With a name like that, it’s expected that you should have some sense. Don’t let anyone push you to believe you are in the same league with Stonebwoy because he has won an award that you craved for and lobbied to win.
“You are not a bigger superstar than Stonebwoy. So stay in your Loverboy lane and let Stonebwoy reign in the streets. You have no business competing in the reggae and dancehall genre—it has nothing to do with you as an Afrobeats singer,” she added.
Sally Mann’s word of caution has stirred up reactions, with netizens slamming and questioning her.
Adom TV's ShowTym host, MamaGa, issues a warning to King Promise following his TGMA victory over Stonebwoy. pic.twitter.com/Nu13ssZ6Ql
Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido has once again flaunted his wealth as he revealed that the diamonds encrusted on his teeth are worth millions of dollars.
In a video making trends online, the ‘Assurance’ hitmaker is captured casually displaying a diamond tooth embellishment and a diamond necklace, which he claims are worth $500,000 and $2 million, respectively.
This display of luxury and extravagance has garnered mixed reactions online. While some gushed over his wealth, others have also slammed him, questioning the essence of his luxurious lifestyle and such extravagant purchases. But for Davido, this is nothing new.
Davido is widely known for his extravagant lifestyle and frequent displays of wealth. He has consistently showcased his luxury possessions, including high-end cars, private jets, and customized jewelry made from both gold and diamonds.
He not only showers himself with luxury gifts and accessories but also does the same for his wife, Chioma Rolands Adeleke.
During his wife’s 30th birthday, Davido gifted Chioma a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon AMG G63 worth about $300,000.
In addition to the car, Davido also gifted Chioma an iced-out diamond bracelet, which he placed on her wrist during the party. The bracelet is also reported to be worth £52,000.
The singer, currently enjoying success with his latest release, 5ive, has never been one to shy away from the finer things in life.
The manager of Ghanaian highlife icon Dada Kweku Duah, affectionately known as Dada KD, has shed light on the painful circumstances leading to the death of the legend.
News of Dada KD’s passing came on Friday, May 16, with reports of his suffering a short illness that claimed his life.
However, further revelations from his manager, Clarence Kenneth Ekow Peterson, known in showbiz circles as King Pee, suggest that Dada KD could have survived if he hadn’t been turned away by three health facilities due to absent doctors.
Speaking in an interview on Adom FM morning news, King Pee mentioned that the facility in which Dada KD lost his life was the fourth after attempts to seek medical care from the first three failed.
Although King Pee did not mention these hospitals, he noted that Dada KD was eventually admitted to a facility in Gbawe.
Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead shortly after a doctor attended to him upon arrival.
Asked whether the late musician suffered any sickness, King Pee noted that he complained of mild malaria symptoms earlier in the day but remained relatively stable.
His condition, however, worsened unexpectedly, prompting an urgent rush to nearby hospitals.
“We did everything we could. He was strong in the morning, but things changed so quickly. Sadly, he couldn’t survive,” King Pee told Baffour Owiredu Amoh.
Dada KD’s untimely death comes just days before his scheduled trip to the UK to perform at the ‘Celebrating Hiplife & Highlife Legends’ event on May 25, at the Dominion Centre in London.
The veteran musician is best known for timeless hits like Fatia Fata, Dada Tekyere Ma, Ene Menye, Wosuro a Wondi, and Honey Love. His legacy as a Highlife icon continues to inspire generations.
He is said to have died around 4:00 PM on Friday, May 16,while on oxygen support. He was 56.
Meanwhile, the exact cause of death is yet to be officially confirmed by medical authorities.
Tributes have already begun pouring in from across the creative industry, with fans and fellow musicians expressing shock and grief over the sudden loss.
Head of Public Events and Communications at Charterhouse Productions Ltd., Robert Klah, has apologised to Ghanaian content creator and TV show host at Onua TV, Felicia Osei, over the ticketing issues she encountered during the just-ended 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards.
“So, sorry to her for whatever embarrassment she may have faced,” he said during a media appearance.
His apology comes after Felicia took to social media to complain about being denied entry into the auditorium because her ticket had been flagged as already used.
During his interview with Daybreak Hitz’s DJ Slimon Robert, he explained that Felicia wasn’t the only one who suffered such a fate, but several other attendees encountered the same challenge.
He noted that there are about three reasons behind the mishap, including system errors among other things; however, he assured that his outfit would address it to avoid future occurrences.
“..it’s one of three things. For us, there is a need to investigate and understand what it is so that we are clear on how to move forward without having an issue. So, apologies to her if she felt any embarrassment, but these are the realities on the ground—it could be any of the three things I’ve mentioned.”
“That’s why I’m giving you the various scenarios, because there were people who came and were giving out their tickets,” he stated.
He added that whenever a ticket is scanned, a face is captured next to it. So, anyone else trying to use the same ticket will not be allowed into the venue.
Robert Klah concluded by apologizing to Felicia Osei for the bad experience she went through and promised the organizers would meet with their vendors to determine what exactly went wrong.
The company is committed to investigating the matter and improving its processes to prevent similar issues in the future.
Among other attendees who faced ticketing issues was gospel artist Joe Mettle, whose ticket was flagged as already used; hence, he was denied entry upon his first attempt.
However, after attempts to resolve it, the event staff admitted that it was due to a network error. His manager had to pick up his two awards for him due to the late entry.
FIFA held a mournful minute of silence in honour of two prominent figures in Ghanaian football during the 75th FIFA Congress in Asunción, Paraguay, on May 15.
Among these distinguished figures are legendary footballer Wilberforce Mfum and avid supporter Francis Yaw Frimpong, widely known as Nana Pooley.
Who is Wilberforce Mfum?
Wilberforce Mfum was a renowned Ghanaian footballer who made his mark in football history.
He died on May 11 at 88. The celebrated Ghanaian striker played a key role in the Black Stars’ historic 1963 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. Born on August 28, 1936, Mfum scored crucial goals in that tournament, including in the final.
He scored 20 goals in 26 appearances for the national team and represented Ghana at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo. And on the club level, he played for both Asante Kotoko and Swedru All Blacks, as well as American sides Baltimore Bays and New York Cosmos.
About Nana Pooley
Nana Pooley was an ardent supporter of Asante Kotoko and was a member of the club’s Supporters’ Communication Team. He was stabbed to death on February 2, 2025, during a Ghana Premier League match against Nsoatreman FC at Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre.
His death awakened calls for the urgent need to crack down on vandalism and violence in Ghanaian football.
Their dedication and service to Ghanaian football were recognised on the global stage as FIFA delegates observed a moment of silence in their memory.
Ghanaian gospel musician Joe Mettle has revealed plans to pull out from future nominations for the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs).
His decision stems from the demands of the awards process, which he believes sometimes an artist may not be ready for due to other equally important engagements.
“I think I do [have intentions to retire from the awards]. There are things the awards require that sometimes you’re not able to do. Because once you’re nominated, you need to push it, and sometimes a lot is going on. Sometimes it gets to a point where so much is happening around you that you can’t fully commit to the requirements,” he stated.
Joe Mettle added that thoughts of stepping back from the award scheme have been lingering for the past 3-4 years. However, he clarified that his decision is not coming from a place of pride or arrogance, as many would assume.
“For the past three or four years, I’ve wanted to take a step back from the awards. And it’s not because I think I’ve outgrown them, no, it’s not that,” he said.
He continued that, on most occasions, artists who don’t actively promote their nominations are not arrogant; that is often a misunderstanding.
In the media, they might think you’re acting ‘big,’ but it’s not the case. Most of those are assumptions,” he explained.
The “Onwanwani” singer further shared that an artist’s career goes through different seasons, and there are times when one’s focus naturally shifts, making full participation in award-related activities challenging.
“There are seasons. A time comes when you realize you can’t commit to the awards like you used to. But it’s not because you’ve outgrown them,” he added.
Despite his reflections on stepping back, Joe Mettle had a successful night at the 2025 TGMAs, taking home two awards: Best Gospel Artiste of the Year and Best Male Vocal Performance for his song “Obo Awan Oba.”
He was unable to show up for his two awards due to issues he encountered with his ticketing.
Upon his arrival at the event’s grounds, he was prevented from entry as organisers cited that his ticket had already been used; however, after attempts to resolve it, the event staff confirmed it was a network error, hence granting him entry.
Joe mettle is a celeberated Ghanaian gospel singer and songwriter known for his worship music that has tourched many lifes across Africa and beyond.
He has gained widespread recognition with hit songs like “My Everything,” “Onwanwani,” and Bo Noo Ni” which have become staples in many church worship sessions.
The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has urged a team of young Ghanaian creatives to return to the country after their cultural exchange tour in Poland.
Speaking during a courtesy call at the Ministry in Accra on May 15, the minister applauded Ghana’s Photographic Tourism Ambassador, Thomas Fynn for opening doors for young creatives, particularly photographers.
She, however, cautioned them to return following their program as their refusal to do so would jeopardise other creatives’ chances.
“I hope this opens more doors. Travel well, represent Ghana with pride, and return to share your experiences. If you don’t come back, you block the opportunity for others,” she said.
“Mr Fynn has always been committed to supporting the next generation. When he approached the ministry about this project, I saw it as a way to highlight photography, which doesn’t always get the attention it deserves.
The team’s departure marks the start of the Ghana-Poland Photographic Collaboration — a cultural project led by Polish photographer Mr. Wojciech Zaremba in partnership with Fynn.
The project will feature photo exhibitions and cultural activities in Poland, using photography to tell stories and promote cultural exchange.
Three young Ghanaian photographers are part of the team: Mary Ama Odurowaa Sarkodie, Theophilus Seth Opoku, and Ernestina Fynn.
Their involvement shows Ghana’s commitment to supporting young people and building global partnerships in the arts.
The project is being organized by The Kownketsia Foundation and FYNNexhibits Limited, with support from the Ministry.
Popular Ghanaian highlife musician Nana Kwaku Duah, popularly known as Dada KD, has passed away.
Dada KD’s untimely death comes just days before his scheduled trip to the UK to perform at the ‘Celebrating Hiplife & Highlife Legends’ event on May 25, at the Dominion Centre in London.
Circumstances leading to his death are yet to be made public; however, his close friend, Accra FM’s mid-morning show host Nana Romeo, mentioned that a day before his passing, he had accompanied Dada KD to the UK embassy to start his visa process, after which the legend was very excited.
However, on the morning of May 16, the day set for the finalisation, of his UK visa process, Dada KD’s manager walked in on him, and he was struggling to speak.
He was quickly rushed to Gbawe Government Hospital, but after a few hours under medical care, doctors pronounced him dead.
His death has come as a huge blow to Ghanaians and many others beyond the region.
On social media, fans and fellow musicians have begun pouring in tributes. Gospel singer Empress Gifty posted, “Dada KD,” in a heartfelt tribute.
Dada KD’s most memorable songs include Fatia Fata Nkrumah, Tekyere Ma, Ene Menye, Wosuro a Wondi, and Honey Love. His legacy as a Highlife icon continues to inspire generations.
President John Mahama has announced the return of Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang to Ghana by the end of next week.
This comes after the vice president took ill and had to travel abroad to seek further medical care.
Speaking during his ‘Thank You Tour’ at Dodowa in the Greater Accra Region on Friday, May 16, President Mahama revealed that Professor Jane has fully recovered and will return to her duties next week.
“I’m happy to state that I spoke to her yesterday morning, and she will be back in the country before the end of next week. By God’s grace, she is fully recovered, and she’s going to come and go back to her duties,” he said.
President John Mahama visited Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang abroad on May 12, during her medical treatment in the United Kingdom.
His visit coincided with Mother’s Day, where he shared a tribute reassuring Ghanaians of her recovery.
Why did Naana travel abroad?
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang was reported to have suffered a sudden illness on Friday, March 28, 2025, and sought medical attention at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) the following day.
She was advised to take rest, after which she took a three-week medical leave on April 7, 2025. The presidency later announced that she had travelled abroad for further treatment as a precautionary measure to ensure a full recovery.
Though she was expected to spend 21 days off duty, she has been away for the past 49 days since she fell ill. Her return would be a major boost for the presidency.
On the other hand, during the president’s travel abroad to visit Naana during her treatment, the Minority caucus in Parliament made calls for the selection of a leader, citing Article 60 of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates that the Speaker of Parliament be sworn in as Acting President when both the President and Vice President are absent.
Speaker Alban Bagbin was also reported to be out of the country, leaving Ghana without a formal head — a situation the Minority insists breaches the Constitution.
Liverpool are ready to settle the release clause of Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, which is approximately 35 million euros (£29.5 million), as they close in on their first summer signing.
Talks regarding his move to Liverpool have already progressed as Arne Slot is reportedly interested in the German lad who plays across the right-hand side, for next season’s campaign.
If Arne Slot’s side can pull off a successful swoop, the 24-year-old Dutchman would help mitigate the blow of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is set to join Real Madrid next season as he joins the Spanish giants on a free transfer.
Jeremie who started of at Man City’s youth academy where he gained impressive skills which landed him a four year contract with Celtic.
His performances, including a goal against Aberdeen and a key role in Celtic’s Scottish League Cup Final victory, attracted interest from Bayer Leverkusen.
He has made 53 appearances in all competitions for club and country this season, with 5 goals to his name and played a pivotal role in helping Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title in 2024.
Frimpong’s former club Celtic would be due a portion of any transfer fee Leverkusen receive, with some reports suggesting the sell-on fee negotiated when he left the club in 2021 could be as high as 30%.
Chelsea’s star Cole Palmer has tipped Barcelona talent Lamine Yamal as the best player in football at the moment, citing his current form and performance.
He said Yamal’s confidence and exceptional dribbling skills make him exciting to watch. For him, he does it way better than some mature players who may be labelled as the best in the game.
With the Spanish prodigy’s current performance and skills, Palmer believes that the 17-year-old is the world’s best currently.
“I think he’s the best player in the world, to be honest. I feel like everything they do goes through him. When you watch him, he’s incredible.
“You can tell from the way he’s confident, he’s got no fear, and I love watching him,” he said.
Many would say the 2024/2025 season has been Yamal’s best yet, as he has delivered brilliant performances.
He has scored 8 goals in 33 games with 13 assists. In the UEFA Champions League, he played 13 games, scoring five goals and providing three assists.
His stellar performance helped his team win the 2024/2025 La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup, although they were unfortunately eliminated in the semi-final stage of the Champions League.
Some pundits and former footballers believe he is a potential contender for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7) has once again emerged as the highest-paid athlete for the third consecutive year, according to Forbes’ recent ranking.
NBA star Stephen Curry has taken Lionel Messi’s position as the second highest paid, falling four places behind his rival.
Curry, the Golden State Warriors guard who became the first NBA player to reach 4,000 career three-pointers in March, recorded $156 million (approximately £117 million) in income.
Forbes says Ronaldo has been on the list five times in his career and has since increased his estimated total earnings by $15 million, reaching $275 million (about £206 million).
Cristiano Ronaldo’s earnings have increased following his juicy contract with Al-Nassr and partnerships with Nike, Binance, and Clear, as well as his brand and huge social media following.
The only sportsman that has surpassed the Al-Nassr star is former world champion boxer Floyd Mayweather, who earned $300 million in 2015 (then £194 million) and $275 million in 2018 (then £205 million).
Tyson Fury moved to third place on Forbes’ highest-paid athletes list, replacing Dak Prescott, the American football quarterback. Prescott, who was previously ranked third, has now dropped to fourth place, earning $137 million in 2025.
Fury was the beneficiary of a Netflix reality television show and a partnership with Maltese tourism.
A car crash during the derby match between Espanyol and Barcelona has left thirteen people injured.
A crowd of fans had gathered outside the RCDE Stadium in Cornellà on Thursday, May 15, when a car ran into them while they stood cheering and waiting for the arrival of their team’s buses.
Ten ambulances were sent to the scene. The most severe injury reported was a broken leg.
According to the police in Barcelona, no fatalities were recorded, but four people who needed medical attention were taken to the hospital.
Fortunately, none of the affected people who were sent to the hospital, according to the police, are in a serious condition.
The crash delayed the match for several minutes in the initial stages of the game while the referee was being informed by the police.
The police revealed that the incident did not present any danger to the crowd inside the stadium.
The driver of the car was arrested on charges of suspicion of dangerous driving and causing injury.
Per videos making waves on social media, the car had stopped between some bins outside the stadium and was surrounded by fans until it later sped into the crowd.
“It was an accident, some people were injured, but not seriously. There are no major incidents to report,” Salvador Illa, the president of the Government of Catalonia, who was present at the match, told Spanish TV channel Movistar Plus.
UEFA delegates, led by President Aleksander Ceferin staged a walkout in protest of FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s late arrival for the world governing body’s congress in Paraguay.
Mr Gianni Infantino joined President of the United States Donald Trump on his 4-day tour of the Middle East, which started on May 12, and lasted four days, concluding on May 15.
Gianni Infantino went with Trump to Saudi Arabia and Qatar on May 12 and May 14, respectively.
In Qatar, they both attended a state dinner at Lusail Palace hosted by Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, where the FIFA president joined in discussions about the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Consequently, he was two hours and 17 minutes late for the FIFA event which was scheduled to start at 10:30 (14:30 BST).
In reaction to this, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, in a statement, slammed Infantino for prioritising “private political interests” over what he describes as “one of the most important meetings in world football”.
“The Fifa congress is one of the most important meetings in world football, where all the 211 nations in the world’s game gather to discuss issues that affect the sport right across the world,” said European football’s governing body.
“To have the timetable changed at the last minute for what appears to be simply to accommodate private political interests, does the game no service and appears to put its interests second.
We are all in post to serve football, from the streets to the podium, and UEFA members of the Fifa council felt the need on this occasion to make a point that the game comes first and to leave as originally scheduled.”
Aleksander Ceferin, alongside European FIFA Council members such as Razvan Burleanu, Pascal Van Damme, Bernd Neuendorf, Debbie Hewitt, Sandor Csanyi, Dejan Savicevic, and Georgios Koumas, walked out during a break.
It meant there were empty seats at the Conmebol Convention Centre in Luque, on the outskirts of the Paraguayan capital of Asuncion, when the meeting resumed.
Uefa said in a statement the “last-minute changes” to the timings were “deeply regrettable” but “a point” had to be made.
Norwegian FA president Lise Klaveness added: “The annual congress is the single most important body to ensure good governance of international football.”
“The situation is concerning. Member associations have travelled from all over the world to participate at this congress here in Paraguay, expecting professional leadership and dialogue at the highest level.”
A number of delegates from Concacaf – the North America, Central America and Caribbean confederation – also decided to leave the congress early.
FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom tried to defuse the tensions and said: “FIFA has an excellent relationship with UEFA and also with the European members.”
“The president explained the reasons why he was delayed. He had important matters to deal with, and we have had a great congress here.”
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has volunteered to pay for the tickets of thirty(30)of his backroom staff to take their families to next week’s Europa League final in Bilbao, Spain.
This comes after the club management informed him that his coaches, physios, and support team would have to pay for their tickets.
Amorim informed the club hierarchy that he would cover the cost himself to help his backroom staff travel with at least two friends or family members to the game.
“It’s complicated for the club to stop giving (tickets) to all the members of staff, it’s a hard position, then that situation was explained and in that moment, my reaction was to help. Because it’s not going to…I’m not a good guy, and it’s not going to change my life.(sic) And I had to help the staff to be comfortable and be better staff at the final,” he said.
The reaction of the players, according to Amorim, was no different from his; they were just not happy about the new directive on staff ticketing and travel expenses. Players have been allotted only two tickets each, with family and friends expected to cover their travel costs.
“Then they talked to the players, and the players had the same reaction. All the players had the same reaction at the same moment. Everybody has the staff there and same as their families. But it’s hard to manage things in our club, so it’s simple,” he said.
However, sources claim that United have taken the stand in order to ensure that supporters are able to purchase as many tickets as possible from the club’s 15,000 allocation for the game at Estadio San Mamés.
Manchester United is set to play against Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao on May 21, and the winning team will not only earn a trophy but also secure their spot in the Champions League next season.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s part ownership of the club has followed several budget alterations, including 250 job cuts last year in February and the cancellation of the club’s Christmas party, as well as the cancellation of free staff meals and free meals during training sessions.
The board is also considering more axing, as about 200 people risk losing their jobs at Old Trafford this summer, and has made two tickets for Bilbao available for staff to purchase rather than fund a complimentary trip to the final.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), on the other announced that it would have 600 staff sponsored to attend their game against Inter Milan in Munich on May 31.
