Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare has rejected claims that Ghana’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup was split because of loyalty to Ghanaian music stars Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jr., popularly known as Shatta Wale, and Livingstone Etse Satekla, known professionally as Stonebwoy.

The goalkeeper described the reports as baseless, insisting that he does not allow social media discussions to influence his focus as a player.

Responding to claims that there were tensions in the team due to the dominance of members of the Shatta Movement (SM) fan base around the Black Stars, Asare said: “That is not true.”

He explained that he avoids online debates because people often share opinions without knowing the reality behind situations.

“Apart from playing the matches, I don’t even go on social media to check what people have said because they will say what they want, and you can’t change anything about it. Everyone has a way of doing their job; it is just up to them to be careful and make sure they find the truth before they voice out,” he stated.

The goalkeeper also addressed reports that Shatta Wale had promised him a car and cash reward after Ghana’s World Cup campaign. Although he confirmed that the items had not yet been presented to him, Asare said he remains confident the musician will honour the gesture.

“It hasn’t happened yet, but my faith tells me that it’s on the way because I know where I know him from. He’s also a Korle Gonno guy,” he said.

Asare further clarified that his admiration for Shatta Wale does not mean he has issues with other Ghanaian musicians, including Stonebwoy and Black Sherif.

“Just because people say I’m SM doesn’t mean I hate Stonebwoy or I don’t listen to Black Sherif’s music. I listen to most of the artistes, but personally, my motivation and everything is Shatta Wale,” he added.

The goalkeeper described Shatta Wale as a father figure and source of inspiration, citing the musician’s journey through challenges as one of the reasons he respects him.

“When I look at some of the things he has been through, one way or the other I face such challenges, so I look up to him and learn. The problem is that because I’m a national asset and an SM fan, people interpret it differently. But he’s my godfather, and everyone has an interest and someone they like,” he said.

Benjamin Asare insisted that he is not bothered by delays in receiving any promised rewards, stressing that gestures from supporters and public figures should not be treated as obligations.

“I still believe everyone who promised will fulfil their promise; it’s just a matter of time. Everyone has their time and how they do their things, so it doesn’t mean that because they promised I have to expect it immediately. The day I least expect it, he might call me and give it to me.”

His comments come amid renewed conversations about the influence of Ghanaian music fan groups on football discussions, especially after the Black Stars’ recent international campaign. Asare’s remarks appear aimed at ending speculation that personal entertainment preferences have affected unity within the national team.

Watch the interview below:

@dadzietv Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare has finally addressed claims of divisions within Ghana’s camp during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking during a meet-and-greet session at Ohemaa Woyeje’s Ice Bar Restaurant, Asare responded to reports that players were split into rival camps allegedly linked to Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy. He shared his perspective on the rumours and clarified what really happened inside the Black Stars camp. This is what Benjamin Asare had to say. #dadzietv ♬ original sound – Dadzie TV

Source: Yvonne Nyarko Agyemang