Accra:The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has expressed that the withdrawal of several players from the Black Stars squad is an unfortunate situation as they prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
According to Ghana Web, Okraku noted that the national team's technical staff did not foresee this challenge, which has required adjustments. He emphasized that no player has intentionally withdrawn from the national team since he assumed his role.
Okraku explained that the technical team is responsible for scouting players, and injuries have been a significant factor affecting player availability. He made it clear that he has not encountered any player who has refused to play for Ghana when called upon.
He further elaborated on the pressures players face, including intense training and their commitments to clubs, which are their primary source of income. Players often sustain injuries during their club duties, which impacts their national team participation.
The Black Stars' coach, Carlos Queiroz, faces the challenge of proceeding without key players such as Jordan Ayew, Kudus Mohammed, Baba Rahman, Alidu Seidu, Nathaniel Adjei, and Prince Kwabena Adu for upcoming critical matches.
Ghana is set to face C´te d'Ivoire in Bouak© on September 24, followed by a match against The Gambia in Accra on September 29, 2026. They will conclude their international break with a friendly against Morocco on October 4, 2026.