BY Issah Olegor
Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has emphasized that only players with genuine passion and commitment to Ghana will earn a place in the Black Stars squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The GFA President Okraku’s statement comes amid growing speculation about potential call-ups for foreign-born players, including Eddie Nketiah, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Francis Amuzu.
Criteria For Selection
He stressed that wearing the national colors is a privilege that comes with responsibility.
He emphasized that players who once rejected invitations or showed a lack of respect for the country will not be reconsidered.
“I don’t want mercenaries coming to Ghana,” Okraku said in an interview with 3Sports. “I want players who love Ghana, who play from the heart, with passion, and are proud to represent the nation in every competition”.
The GFA president made it clear that Ghana’s qualification for the World Cup should not suddenly attract players who previously showed little interest.
“If you’ve declined an invitation in the past or shown a lack of respect for Ghana’s jersey, don’t expect to be called up for the 2026 World Cup,” Okraku declared.
“This is about national pride, discipline, and a long-term commitment to our cause” ².
Committed Players Wanted
Okraku emphasized that the Black Stars will only be comprised of players who demonstrate genuine love, respect, and commitment to Ghana.
“We are looking for players who are committed to the Ghanaian flag, to the ideals of the Black Stars, and who truly feel a sense of responsibility to represent Ghana,” he explained.
Otto Addo Confirmed
The FA President also confirmed that Otto Addo will remain in charge of the Black Stars and lead the team to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former Borussia Dortmund talent coach has faced criticism following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the country’s first absence from the tournament in over two decades.
However, Addo redeemed his standing by guiding the national team to the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Despite securing a qualification, sections of the Ghanaian football community have called for his dismissal.
But Okraku has firmly backed the former Ghana international to continue in his role.
“Otto Addo is our coach. He qualified us for the World Cup in a grand style, and he will take Black Stars to the World Cup,” he told the media.
“In Qatar, we had a decent outing and the stats are there, but as a human, he will make mistakes, but he will stay, and he will lead the team to the World Cup,” he added.
The Black Stars will learn their group-stage opponents for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on December 5.
