Kurt Okraku breaks silence on foreign-born players after World Cup qualification

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt E.S. Okraku has addressed the growing discussion about foreign-born players expressing interest in representing Ghana following the Black Stars’ qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In recent days, several reports have emerged linking players such as Francis Amuzu, Eddie Nketiah, and Callum Hudson-Odoi with potential switches to represent Ghana. The debate has since divided opinion among fans and pundits.

However, Okraku has made it clear that only players who have demonstrated loyalty, respect, and passion for the national team will be considered.

“As a leader, I don’t really care what anybody says. At the end of the day, the responsibility lies with me, and I am accountable for Ghana,” he said.

“If we have approached you before and you turned us down. If you’ve shown a lack of respect or declined to play for Ghana in the past count yourself out. It’s not going to happen.”

Okraku further emphasized that commitment to the national cause will remain a key factor in player selection.

“Players who have not shown enough commitment to the Ghanaian flag will not be part of us. There must be a good reason why a player is included in the travelling party. I want players who display high levels of dedication, passion, and respect for Ghana,” he added.

Meanwhile, Black Stars head coach Otto Addo is expected to name Ghana’s squad for upcoming international friendlies against Japan and South Korea.

The matches will serve as part of preparations for next year’s FIFA World Cup, with the coach likely to hand call-ups to some new faces as he continues to assess his squad.