FC Lorient centre-back Nathaniel Adjei says he is eager to seize his second chance with the Black Stars after receiving a recall for Ghana’s upcoming international friendly against Mexico.
The 23-year-old defender returns to the national team setup following a frustrating spell on the sidelines that halted his international breakthrough shortly after it began.
Adjei made his senior debut for Ghana during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying clash against Niger, but the occasion ended in disappointment after he sustained an ankle injury and was substituted before halftime.
The setback kept him out of action for several months, forcing the former Hammarby defender into a lengthy recovery period before eventually regaining full fitness and reclaiming his place in Lorient’s backline.
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After producing a series of assured performances in the French league this season, Adjei has now been handed another opportunity to prove himself at international level as Ghana intensify preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“It’s an amazing feeling to be back. The journey hasn’t been easy, especially after the injury, but I remained patient and continued working hard every day. Now I’m focused on helping the team in any way I can,” Adjei told GHANAsoccernet.com.
Despite fierce competition for defensive spots in the Black Stars squad, Adjei remains determined to impress head coach Carlos Queiroz and cement his place ahead of the global tournament.
Ghana will take on Mexico in an international friendly on May 22, with the encounter expected to play a key role in Queiroz’s assessment before naming his final squad for the World Cup in North America.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
