Englands World Cup opponents Ghana appoint ex-Man Utd coach as new manager two months before finals
Founded by former Ghanaian football star Marcel Desailly, this academy emphasizes holistic training. Right to Dream is Ghana’s most renowned academy, known for producing players who succeed in Europe and beyond. Whether you are a parent supporting your child’s dream or a player aiming for greatness, this guide will help you make the right choice. If you’re looking for the complete list of top football academies in Ghana and their fees (2025), this detailed guide explains everything you need to know. You will discover the most reputable academies, their locations, fees, facilities, enrollment processes, and what sets each apart.
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The GFA’s two-stage squad announcement has manufactured controversy where none needed to exist and it is the latest symptom of an institution that has consistently failed the national team. There are also statistics for each player in all competitions with all total played and started matches, minutes played, number of goals scored, number of cards and much more. We may have video highlights with goals and news for some Ghana matches, but only if they play their match in one of the most popular football leagues. Ghana live scores, players, season schedule and today’s results are available on Sofascore. Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has encouraged Ghanaians ahead of the 2026 World Cup, as he and his charges dream of success at the tournament. While injuries disrupted parts of his campaign, the 28-year-old has continued to play a key role for LA Galaxy.
The Portuguese coach declined to discuss the identity of Djiku’s replacement but made it clear that the squad had already been adjusted following the defender’s withdrawal. “We have to make a decision and replace Alexander Djiku. It doesn’t matter who was the player that I called, Djiku was replaced,” Queiroz said. Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has confirmed that defender Alexander Djiku will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to injury, ending speculation over the availability of one of the Black Stars’ most experienced defenders.
Ghana Football Association compensates players modestly compared to European powerhouses. Kudus’ £150,000 weekly Tottenham contract represents the new benchmark for Ghanaian player salaries in Europe’s elite leagues. His £200,000 weekly salary made him one of the Premier League’s highest-paid African players before his 2025 Villarreal move. Ghana have previously reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 2010 — the best performance by an African team at the time — and will be hoping to make a renewed impact in 2026. The 73-year-old’s appointment comes after Ghana parted ways with Otto Addo on March 31, following a poor run of results that included defeats to Germany and Austria in friendly matches.
Coaches in 2024
Yet the numbers alone do not resolve the underlying concern, which is not about whether scouting was conducted, but about whether the final decisions are made freely by the coach. The problem is structural; when a football association retains local assistants, influences backroom composition, the question of who ultimately controls selection cannot be answered by citing a scouting database. For today’s football schedule and results visit our football live score page.
Carlos Queiroz succeeds Otto Addo in the Ghana hotseat, who was sacked 72 days out from the tournament
There are also all Ghana scheduled matches that they are going to play in the future. When the match starts, you will be able to follow Malawi vs Ghana live score, standings, minute by minute updated live results and match statistics. The confirmation comes as a major blow for Ghana, with Djiku having been expected to play a key role at the World Cup thanks to his experience and leadership at the back. Speaking after Ghana’s latest training session in Cardiff, Queiroz revealed that Djiku had already been replaced in the squad as preparations continue for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz has revealed that Ghana only had their full squad available on the eve of Tuesday’s friendly against Wales, describing the situation as one of the…
- Below is a detailed breakdown of Ghana’s leading football academies, their fees, and what they offer.
- “He did great for Bournemouth and he had a deserving transfer to Manchester City. He’s continuing doing what he does best with goalscoring.
- The competition forms part of the Union’s broader efforts to make rugby accessible to all, while supporting athlete development, safety and equal opportunities in sport.
- “We must invest in young talents, create opportunities for them, and give them hope.
- MTN FA Cup chairman Wilson Arthur says the growing commercial pressures in Ghana football have forced most GPL clubs into…
- Those campaigns remain reminders that Ghana have often thrived when the odds looked steep.
- Had Queiroz simply named a 26-man squad on May 25, the squad he was always going to take to the World Cup, the debate would have been sharper, clearer, and concluded in a single day.
- “We need to make sure we stay focused because it’s different to friendly games – anything can happen in a tournament. We shouldn’t think about England or how they’re going to perform. Our main focus is to qualify from the group stage.
- The Ghana Football Association (GFA) held a successful media engagement session on Monday, February 7, 2024, at the Lancaster Hotel in Kumasi.
Black Stars legend Michael Essien also encouraged young players and their families to embrace the opportunities available through the programme. Founder of Coachhene Sports Club, Emmanuel Afranie Jnr, described the initiative as a major milestone in strengthening pathways for young Ghanaian players in the diaspora. With more than 200 attendees present, the programme brought together parents, young footballers, academy representatives, and key stakeholders connected to Ghana football in what proved to be an inspiring and forward-looking session. In 2010, Ghana narrowly missed making it to the FIFA World Cup semifinals before losing to Uruguay in one of the most thrilling games in the competition’s history.
THE IMPREGNABLE FUTURE OF OFFICIATING IN GHANA – “CATCH THEM YOUNG REFEREEING POLICY”
But the squad did see a return after a three-year absence for 31-year-old Baba Abdul Rahman. The former Chelsea fullback was in the 2022 World Cup squad but has featured in only one international for Ghana since. Ghana finally announced its World Cup squad late on Monday after coach Carlos Queiroz was forced to juggle last-minute injury concerns before finalising his 26-man selection.
Domestic football in Ghana cannot compete financially with even mid-tier European opportunities. With less than three months to the start of the tournament, Queiroz faces an immediate challenge to prepare Ghana for a demanding group campaign. The team with the largest stadium is Asante Kotoko with the capacity of 40528. The top scorers in the last season of Ghana Premier League Premier League 25/26 season were Kumi Attah.Last season top scorer is Kumi Attah with 18 goals. Sofascore tracks live football scores and Ghana Premier League table, results, statistics and top scorers.
“People back home have questions about his performance when it comes to the national team, but as a former player and a striker, I have to be in his shoes. “To go into a World Cup warm-up friendly with players arriving the day before, it’s about innovations in the game.” Queiroz also criticised the scheduling of some domestic competitions, noting that certain countries continued to stage cup finals beyond FIFA’s recommended release period for international duty.
MTN FA Cup chairman Wilson Arthur says the growing commercial pressures in Ghana football have forced most GPL clubs into… Campus Cybercafe Blog provides well-researched content on education, global salary trends, net worth insights, career growth, and personal finance. Our mission is to empower students, professionals, and job seekers with reliable and actionable information. Take the time to research, attend trials, and commit fully — the next football star could be you.
- In contrast, Kamaldeen Sulemana endured a difficult season after securing a move to Atalanta Bergamo from Southampton.
- “When it comes to world football, England are up there, but as a Ghanaian, I have to root for my boys.
- Across those appearances, he has overseen 13 World Cup matches, recording three wins, four draws and six defeats.
- His diversified portfolio generates passive income beyond football salaries.
- Semenyo joined Manchester City in January from Bournemouth, having scored 10 Premier League goals with three assists for the Cherries in the first half of the season.
- WAFA has produced many players for the Ghanaian national team and European clubs.
- Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.
- After earning a bachelor’s degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism.
- Founder of Coachhene Sports Club, Emmanuel Afranie Jnr, described the initiative as a major milestone in strengthening pathways for young Ghanaian players in the diaspora.
- “The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars,” the GFA stated.
- Top stars like Antoine Semenyo and Inaki Williams are going to represent the Ghana national football team in FIFA’s flagship tournament.
- Ghana have previously reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 2010 — the best performance by an African team at the time — and will be hoping to make a renewed impact in 2026.
“Almost all GPL clubs are breeding players for sale” – Wilson Arthur
- Antoine Semenyo, an attacker for Manchester City, will supply firepower up top.
- The problem is structural; when a football association retains local assistants, influences backroom composition, the question of who ultimately controls selection cannot be answered by citing a scouting database.
- Queiroz’s comments appear to support reports that a replacement has already been drafted into the squad, with Pafos FC defender Derrick Luckassen called up to fill the vacant spot.
- Pot 4 status highlights the scale of the task, but does not limit Ghana’s potential.
- Even though he is the oldest player in the current generation, he is still a dependable source of motivation.
- “We need to make sure we stay focused because it’s different to friendly games – anything can happen in a tournament. We shouldn’t think about England or how they’re going to perform. Our main focus is to qualify from the group stage.
- The complete list of top football academies in Ghana and their fees (2025) above shows that Ghana continues to invest in grassroots football, producing talents that shine locally and abroad.
- Organisers described the competition as a demonstration of how sport can break barriers and create opportunities for people of all abilities.
- “When the World Cup draw was made, I saw the game in my mind. We made history and I’ve been part of that game to score that incredible goal. I’m very happy about that especially playing against England.”
The team has won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) several times and consistently ranks among the continent’s elite. “When the World Cup draw was made, I saw the game in my mind. We made history and I’ve been part of that game to score that incredible goal. I’m very happy about that especially playing against England.” With strong collaboration between the GFA, Coachhene Sports Club, Prince Lamona Consult, and the Ghana High Commission, the future of Ghana football continues to look increasingly bright.
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The final list of players to represent the Ghana national football team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been unveiled. The Wales friendly on June 2 is probably Ghana’s final preparatory match before the World Cup. Virtually every major footballing nation calls up exactly the players they intend to take to the tournament for their final pre-tournament warm-up, sometimes with one or two additional cover options. They do not name 28 players, generate a week of squad controversy, and then quietly trim out two names.
Asamoah Gyan named Ambassador for Ghana’s national football teams
Addressing the gathering, Kurt Okraku highlighted the importance of creating stronger bonds between Ghana and its emerging talents abroad. Ghana previous match was against Mexico in International Friendly Games, the match ended with result (Mexico won the match). Ghana’s midfield is powered by Thomas Partey of Villareal and Caleb Yirenkyi, a promising player from Nordsjaelland. Those campaigns remain reminders that Ghana have often thrived when the odds looked steep. The opportunity to rise above expectations begins the moment the groups are confirmed on Friday.
AFCON and World Cup campaigns offer substantial bonus structures, with qualification and progression bonuses reaching six figures for deep tournament runs. “The level of talent and professionalism we witnessed here was very encouraging. These young players are developing in some of the best academies in the world, and initiatives like this allow us to engage them early and monitor their progress closely,” Prof. Mintah noted. Founder of Coach Hene Sporting Club, Emmanuel Afranie, described the programme as an important step in reconnecting talented young players of Ghanaian heritage with the national setup. Latest news on the Ghana National Football Team, including team selections, fixtures, results and coverage of their progression within international tournaments.
The media engagement session was successful, allowing the GFA to address pressing issues and concerns related to Ghana’s football development. “When the game was made, I was like, ‘this is it, I just want to do something for my national team’. It was even one of my best games for Ghana and I scored in the last minute. It was a great moment. “We need to make sure we stay focused because it’s different to friendly games – anything can happen in a tournament. We shouldn’t think about England or how they’re going to perform. Our main focus is to qualify from the group stage. Addo was relieved of his duties after the March international break, in which the Black Stars lost to Germany and Austria in friendlies. In fact, Ghana have not won any of their matches since qualifying for the World Cup, in which they topped their group, and face Wales in a friendly on Tuesday. “There will be a bit of pressure because of where he’s playing now. When you’re playing for one of the best teams in the world and you come into the national team, there will be a lot of expectations.
With 51 goals for Ghana, Gyan remains the nation’s most prolific scorer, having represented the Black Stars across three FIFA World Cups and etched his name permanently into football history. The Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has organised an inclusive rugby competition that brought together deaf and hearing athletes at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium in Legon, Accra. Thomas Partey currently holds this position with $36.4 million net worth from his Premier League career and African business investments. His former £200,000 weekly Arsenal salary established him as Ghana’s highest-earning active player.
How to Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 in Portugal
“Football has given me a lifetime of challenges, lessons, and unforgettable journeys, all over the world. Today, I accept this mission with the same passion and commitment that have guided me throughout my career. He also revisited the unforgettable 2010 World Cup campaign in South Africa, where Ghana stood on the brink of becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals of the tournament. The GFA President reflected on Gyan’s defining moments on football’s biggest stage, particularly his exploits at the 2006 FIFA World Cup and 2010 FIFA World Cup.
This modest compensation forces talented prospects toward European academies that offer times higher wages immediately. Ghana is known for its energetic playing style, technical skill, and passionate fan support. The team has produced world-class players like Abedi Pele, Michael Essien and Asamoah Gyan who have been instrumental in raising Ghana’s profile on the global stage. The naming of a 28 then 26 format might seem like a minor procedural detail.
- President Kurt Okraku took the media through the events leading up to Ghana’s campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 and other relevant matters regarding the team’s early exit from the competition.
- Match officials, coaches and medical personnel received briefings on the communication needs of deaf athletes before the competition commenced.
- His Shanghai SIPG contract paid £227,000 weekly, making him one of Africa’s highest-paid players during Asia’s football investment boom.
- That consistency restored confidence after missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
- Nimley went further by comparing Paintsil’s performances with some of the players who made the squad and insisted the Galaxy winger has done enough to merit consideration.
- The Ghana coach explained that managing player fitness and mental freshness had become a key part of international football, particularly ahead of a major tournament.
- It will be the first-ever meeting between the two nations and the first time Wales have hosted African opposition.
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Ghana squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 — Full list of players; Semenyo, Williams in; Kudus, Salisu out
“We must invest in young talents, create opportunities for them, and give them hope. I want to appeal to corporate Ghana to support football development because the future of our game depends on what we build today,” he added. For Queiroz, the role represents another chapter in a long international career, but also a unique challenge — guiding one of Africa’s most storied national teams on the world stage.
Ghana sit well outside the world’s leading teams in the latest FIFA rankings, and seeding for the draw is decided strictly by those standings. While qualification results added some ranking points, progress has not been enough to lift Ghana closer to the top nations. Their position is a result of performance over a longer period, not just a single qualifying campaign. By announcing 28 names rather than 26, the GFA has guaranteed a second wave of controversy. On June 1, when two players are dropped, there will be new headlines, new accusations, and new questions about why those specific two were cut. The process that was supposedly designed to reduce uncertainty has instead created a fortnight of rolling debate where a single announcement on May 25 would have sufficed.
When does the Ghana Premier League start and when does it finish?
The public would have had the information it deserved without being strung along through a two-stage announcement that serves the administration more than it serves the supporters, the players, or the coach. To ensure full participation, organisers adopted visual communication methods during matches. In addition to the referee’s whistle, flags and visual signals were used to communicate stoppages and key decisions. An interpreter was also present throughout the event to facilitate communication among players, coaches and officials. “The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars,” the GFA stated.
Together, with unity, discipline, and ambition, we will work to honour the expectations of a great football nation. The 73-year-old Portuguese has substantial World Cup experience having previously overseen South Africa, Portugal and Iran on the global stage. The event was also attended by British-Ghanaian rugby player and advocate, Zainab Alema. Match officials, coaches and medical personnel received briefings on the communication needs of deaf athletes before the competition commenced.
Her Excellency Sabah Zita Benson praised the unity and enthusiasm shown throughout the event and reaffirmed the High Commission’s support for the initiative. The event was expertly moderated by respected BBC presenter and Communications Director of Coachhene Sports Club, George Addo Jnr, whose leadership helped guide meaningful conversations around talent development, identity, and opportunity. Sign up for a FREE NewsNow account and get our email alert of the day’s top stories from the UK and around the world. Latest Ghana football news, including the latest updates on the Ghana Premier League, Ghana FA Cup, Ghana Super Cup, the CAF Champions League and much more. Even though he is the oldest player in the current generation, he is still a dependable source of motivation. Antoine Semenyo, an attacker for Manchester City, will supply firepower up top.
Are there free football academies in Ghana?
And yes, history often remembers moments of heartbreak,” President Simeon-Okraku said. The Deaf Rugby Team was accompanied by its coach and president, Yaw Kunadu, as well as Rugby Sports Development Officer at the National Sports Authority, Kumasi, Owusu Amuah, and interpreter Gifty Sammy. Conquerors SC Juniors emerged overall champions after winning all three of their matches. They defeated African Warriors Juniors 5-0 before overcoming Accra Majestics Juniors 19-0 in the Cup Final.
- Semenyo joined Manchester City in January from Bournemouth, having scored 10 Premier League goals with three assists for the Cherries in the first half of the season.
- Mohammed Kudus’ £55 million transfer to Tottenham demonstrates the financial opportunities available to Ghana’s elite prospects through strategic European moves.
- Kamaldeen has played for the Black Stars for close to six years and has only one goal,” Nimley stated.
- WAFA competes in Ghana’s top football leagues, providing players with elite competition experience.
- Across those appearances, he has overseen 13 World Cup matches, recording three wins, four draws and six defeats.
- Together, with unity, discipline, and ambition, we will work to honour the expectations of a great football nation.
- And I am ready to give everything of my experience and knowledge once again, in service of the game and the happiness of people.
- After earning a bachelor’s degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism.
- Ghana have previously reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 2010 — the best performance by an African team at the time — and will be hoping to make a renewed impact in 2026.
Who will Ghana face in group stage of FIFA World Cup 2026?
Carlos Queiroz, with his extensive international experience managing Portugal, Iran, Egypt, and others, may prove harder to manage internally than his predecessors. But the structures that enabled interference have not been dismantled, they have simply received a new occupant at the top. The complete list of top football academies in Ghana and their fees (2025) above shows that Ghana continues to invest in grassroots football, producing talents that shine locally and abroad. If you’re serious about developing your football career, choosing the right academy is a big step toward achieving your dream. WAFA has produced many players for the Ghanaian national team and European clubs.
- With the tournament set to be hosted in North America, some observers have questioned Paintsil’s exclusion, considering his familiarity with the environment and conditions.
- The complete list of top football academies in Ghana and their fees (2025) above shows that Ghana continues to invest in grassroots football, producing talents that shine locally and abroad.
- The academy maintains its focus on producing technically skilled players for Ghanaian and international clubs.
- Queiroz’s comments appear to support reports that a replacement has already been drafted into the squad, with Pafos FC defender Derrick Luckassen called up to fill the vacant spot.
- Football is more than just a sport in Ghana — it is a passion, a culture, and a pathway to global opportunities.
- The 36-year-old has not been included in Ghana’s final squad despite making 120 appearances in the past.
- The match offers Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz another chance to assess his squad ahead of the tournament in North America, where Ghana will face Panama, England and Croatia in Group L.
- “When the World Cup draw was made, I saw the game in my mind. We made history and I’ve been part of that game to score that incredible goal. I’m very happy about that especially playing against England.”
- The GFA’s two-stage squad announcement has manufactured controversy where none needed to exist and it is the latest symptom of an institution that has consistently failed the national team.
- Those campaigns remain reminders that Ghana have often thrived when the odds looked steep.
- “Everything is going to depend on how he’s going to deal with that pressure for the first time, because he hasn’t been under it with the national team before he made that huge transfer.
The initiative reflects the Ghana Football Association’s broader ambition to strengthen the Black Stars pipeline by connecting with talented young Ghanaian players across the diaspora much earlier in their development journey. To the GFA’s credit, they have gone to considerable lengths to explain the current process. The Communications Director revealed that the technical team reviewed approximately 200 player videos and monitored 170 matches live.
This season, he has registered four goals and three assists in 17 appearances across all competitions and has remained a regular starter whenever fit. England’s World Cup group rivals Ghana have appointed former Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz as their new head coach, two months out from the tournament finals. The GFA President praised Gyan for his resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the national team, describing him as a symbol of courage and patriotism whose influence continues to inspire generations of footballers.
“Let’s be realistic. More than 50% of the squad wasn’t here with us,” Queiroz said. It will be the first-ever meeting between the two nations and the first time Wales have hosted African opposition. The complications kept him out for an extended period, with the midfielder only returning to partial team training in late 2025 before resuming full training in January 2026. Kyereh first underwent surgery in February 2023 to repair the ligament damage.
- For today’s football schedule and results visit our football live score page.
- As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision.
- Campus Cybercafe Blog provides well-researched content on education, global salary trends, net worth insights, career growth, and personal finance.
- Let’s see Ghanaian football stars’ career trajectories and see how they compare with other soccer players net worth worldwide.
- He will also represent the Football Association at key engagements and champion initiatives designed to deepen national support for Ghana football.
- The team has produced world-class players like Abedi Pele, Michael Essien and Asamoah Gyan who have been instrumental in raising Ghana’s profile on the global stage.
- Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has confirmed that defender Alexander Djiku will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to injury, ending speculation over the availability of one of the Black Stars’ most experienced defenders.
- Founder of Coach Hene Sporting Club, Emmanuel Afranie, described the programme as an important step in reconnecting talented young players of Ghanaian heritage with the national setup.
- The Ghana Rugby Football Union said it intends to work with national and international partners to expand programmes for deaf athletes and promote greater inclusion in rugby across the country.
- Ghana’s success in African and global football is closely linked to its network of grassroots academies.
THE IMPREGNABLE FUTURE OF OFFICIATING IN GHANA – “CATCH THEM YOUNG REFEREEING POLICY”
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) held a successful media engagement session on Monday, February 7, 2024, at the Lancaster Hotel in Kumasi. “It’s our duty to make the right decisions to manage fitness and mental freshness. We want players to come here excited, not exhausted.” According to Queiroz, more than half of the squad were unavailable when preparations began because they were still involved in league and cup competitions with their clubs. When the match starts, you will be able to follow Wales vs Ghana live score, standings, minute by minute updated live results and match statistics. In 2026, the four-time African winners will be looking to change that when they play Panama, England, and Croatia, the bronze medallists from the previous tournament. Mohammed Salisu also missed out after the Monaco centre back ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in a Ligue 1 clash in January.
“Everything is going to depend on how he’s going to deal with that pressure for the first time, because he hasn’t been under it with the national team before he made that huge transfer. That will not let up this summer either with the Manchester City forward expected to be a key player Ghana at the World Cup. “Today, the day before the game, is the first time we have the team together. That’s an innovation for my football book.” The Portuguese coach said player welfare had been prioritised after many squad members arrived in camp following the conclusion of their club commitments across Europe.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) confirmed the appointment on Monday, with Queiroz tasked with leading the four-time African champions into the expanded global tournament set to be hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Ghana have appointed experienced Portuguese tactician Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following the departure of Otto Addo earlier this month. Players aged between U15 and U20 from leading academies including Chelsea FC, Everton FC, Manchester City FC and Arsenal FC were assessed during the session held in Bromley. As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision. Since joining Khel Now in 2025, he has crafted stories beyond scores, diving into tactics, culture, and emotion.
He will also represent the Football Association at key engagements and champion initiatives designed to deepen national support for Ghana football. Established players in their late 20s often maximize earnings through lucrative Asian or Middle Eastern contracts. These leagues pay 2-3 times European salaries, allowing players to secure financial futures before retirement. AFCON campaigns provide the most lucrative national team opportunities for financial bonuses. The Black Stars had also http://footbal-school-ghana.com lost their previous four games and failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations despite a squad featuring Premier League-based players such as Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo.
Will Mohammed Kudus play in FIFA World Cup 2026?
For now, however, another World Cup dream has slipped away from one of Ghana’s most exciting attacking talents. With the tournament set to be hosted in North America, some observers have questioned Paintsil’s exclusion, considering his familiarity with the environment and conditions. The winger has spent the last two seasons in the United States and would have arrived at the tournament already acclimatized to the region. Paintsil, on the other hand, has consistently featured for LA Galaxy and remains one of the club’s key attacking outlets whenever available. In contrast, Kamaldeen Sulemana endured a difficult season after securing a move to Atalanta Bergamo from Southampton. The winger was used sparingly throughout the campaign and made most of his appearances from the bench, struggling to establish himself as a regular starter.
“Our vision is to build strong national teams for the future by identifying the best Ghanaian talents wherever they may be in the world. Programmes like this are critical to strengthening our talent pipeline and creating opportunities for young players to represent Ghana at the highest level,” he stated. Alexander Djiku was a decent centre-back option for the Ghana national football team in recent years. He did make it to the preliminary squad, but wasn’t included in the final list of players. The 31-year-old currently plays for Spartak Moscow and his performances have not been up to the mark this season.
Top stars like Antoine Semenyo and Inaki Williams are going to represent the Ghana national football team in FIFA’s flagship tournament. With a mixture of experience and youth, they will be looking for some positive outcomes. The team’s best World Cup run, the 2010 quarter-final came under Serbian coach Milovan Rajevac. Ghana’s worst performances have tended to come under coaches who operated in an environment where GFA influence was most visible.
Nimley went further by comparing Paintsil’s performances with some of the players who made the squad and insisted the Galaxy winger has done enough to merit consideration. Paintsil missed out on the previous World Cup after then Black Stars coach Otto Addo omitted him from the final squad, and a similar situation appears to have unfolded under new Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz. Coach Christopher Nimley has sounded strong words of caution to LA Galaxy forward Joseph Paintsil, urging him to focus on his club career after being left out of Ghana’s squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Medeama Sporting Club head coach Ibrahim Tanko has pointed to the trust given to him by President of the club… No academy can guarantee contracts, but they significantly improve a player’s chances by offering exposure and development. This academy has built a reputation for consistency in developing competitive players.
Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies. With 119 national team appearances, Jordan Ayew is Ghana’s second most capped player, trailing only his brother Andre Ayew by just one. Pot 4 status highlights the scale of the task, but does not limit Ghana’s potential.
- With 51 goals for Ghana, Gyan remains the nation’s most prolific scorer, having represented the Black Stars across three FIFA World Cups and etched his name permanently into football history.
- The Black Stars are going to face tough competition in the group stage as they will take on Panama, England and Croatia.
- Ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Jeffrey Schlupp was left out of the final squad and his agent went public with accusations of corruption within the GFA.
- That means two players currently in camp will be cut, and in theory players currently absent could still be added before the FIFA deadline.
- Together, with unity, discipline, and ambition, we will work to honour the expectations of a great football nation.
- Ghana midfielder Daniel-Kofi Kyereh has admitted he came close to walking away from football during his prolonged recovery from injury, describing the period as one of the most difficult phases of his career.
- These leagues pay 2-3 times European salaries, allowing players to secure financial futures before retirement.
- Despite his omission, Paintsil is expected to return his full attention to LA Galaxy as the MLS season returns after the global showpiece, with the forward aiming to help the club climb the standings and challenge for honours.
- They defeated African Warriors Juniors 5-0 before overcoming Accra Majestics Juniors 19-0 in the Cup Final.
But it is symptomatic of a broader culture in which the GFA manages its own exposure rather than prioritising clarity for fans and respect for players. Players left out need a clear explanation as to why they have been left out, so does every supporter who has spent a week debating a squad that is not yet technically final. If the 28-man list is functionally the World Cup squad with only two spots to be resolved, why name 28 at all? The 28-man list announced on May 25 is not, strictly speaking, the final World Cup squad. Ghana are due to announce their official 26-man squad on June 1, a day before the friendly against Wales in Cardiff on June 2.
- The Portuguese coach said player welfare had been prioritised after many squad members arrived in camp following the conclusion of their club commitments across Europe.
- Semenyo joined Manchester City in January from Bournemouth, having scored 10 Premier League goals with three assists for the Cherries in the first half of the season.
- Addressing the gathering, Kurt Okraku highlighted the importance of creating stronger bonds between Ghana and its emerging talents abroad.
- “The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars,” the GFA stated.
- Top stars like Antoine Semenyo and Inaki Williams are going to represent the Ghana national football team in FIFA’s flagship tournament.
- Kudus’ £150,000 weekly Tottenham contract represents the new benchmark for Ghanaian player salaries in Europe’s elite leagues.
- This academy is run by Accra Hearts of Oak SC, one of Ghana’s oldest football clubs.
- Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.
- Ghana have previously reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 2010 — the best performance by an African team at the time — and will be hoping to make a renewed impact in 2026.
- His diversified portfolio generates passive income beyond football salaries.
- The winger has spent the last two seasons in the United States and would have arrived at the tournament already acclimatized to the region.
- Djiku’s absence is a major blow given that Mohammed Salisu is also unavailable after sustaining an ACL injury during the season.
- In contrast, Kamaldeen Sulemana endured a difficult season after securing a move to Atalanta Bergamo from Southampton.
- The youth arm of Accra Great Olympics FC, nurturing young players to join the club’s senior squad.
“When it comes to world football, England are up there, but as a Ghanaian, I have to root for my boys. “We deserve to qualify for the World Cup in terms of how we played in the qualifiers. But in the AFCON qualifiers, it was a big disaster, we didn’t play that much to our level. “When you watch our World Cup games and then the AFCON qualifiers, there was a huge difference. There were a lot of criticisms around after failing to qualify for AFCON but the World Cup is huge. “He did great for Bournemouth and he had a deserving transfer to Manchester City. He’s continuing doing what he does best with goalscoring. Semenyo joined Manchester City in January from Bournemouth, having scored 10 Premier League goals with three assists for the Cherries in the first half of the season. “Some countries didn’t even respect FIFA’s mandatory period and scheduled cup finals until May 29. This is the modern game.”
“They only started arriving because of club games until May 25. They needed rest, three, four, five days depending on minutes and intensity.” For Ghana, the fixture comes at an important stage of their World Cup preparations. Queiroz is still settling into his role after taking charge in April and has had limited time to work with the full squad. The match offers Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz another chance to assess his squad ahead of the tournament in North America, where Ghana will face Panama, England and Croatia in Group L.
The one-day event, held on May 30, 2026, formed part of efforts to expand participation in rugby and create opportunities for athletes with hearing impairments to compete alongside their hearing counterparts. Let’s see Ghanaian football stars’ career trajectories and see how they compare with other soccer players net worth worldwide. The appointment signals a shift towards experience and pragmatism, with the GFA turning to a coach known for his structured approach and ability to organise teams against stronger opposition. Forty players of Ghanaian descent, born in the UK and currently playing in Category One academies, took part in the inaugural talent identification programme organised by the Ghana Football Association. The 36-year-old has not been included in Ghana’s final squad despite making 120 appearances in the past. The GFA looks forward to continuing its efforts to promote football development in Ghana and engage with stakeholders through initiatives like the MEET THE PRESS series.
Dreams FC regularly promotes academy graduates to its senior team competing in the Ghana Premier League. Players with exceptional talent may graduate into Hearts of Oak’s professional team. One of the fastest-growing academies in Ghana, known for discovering raw talent from rural areas. And I am ready to give everything of my experience and knowledge once again, in service of the game and the happiness of people. Queiroz succeeds Otto Addo, who was sacked 72 days out from the tournament following emphatic defeats by Austria and Germany. “Tonight, as we officially unveil Asamoah Gyan as Ambassador of the Ghana Football Association for our National Teams, particularly the Black Stars and Colts Football, we are not simply appointing a former player,” he stated.
The squad numbers for Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign have been published by FIFA following coach Carlos Queiroz’s confirmation of his final 26-man squad.The Black Stars, who have… Despite his omission, Paintsil is expected to return his full attention to LA Galaxy as the MLS season returns after the global showpiece, with the forward aiming to help the club climb the standings and challenge for honours. Several academies, such as Right to Dream and WAFA, integrate academics with football training. This academy is run by Accra Hearts of Oak SC, one of Ghana’s oldest football clubs.



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