Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah has finally addressed the growing speculation surrounding his potential switch to represent Ghana ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, breaking his silence at a glamorous event in London.
Speaking after receiving a community impact award at the prestigious Best of Africa ceremony, the former Arsenal forward expressed deep affection for his ancestral homeland, describing Ghana as a nation rich in talent and culture.
“Ghana has a lot of amazing people, and we have some talented artists, talented football players and talented people in general. I just think they are a bit better than a lot of African countries…,” he said during his acceptance speech.
Nketiah’s remarks have reignited conversations about his long-rumoured decision to switch allegiance from England to Ghana. Though he has already made a senior appearance for the Three Lions, the 26-year-old remains eligible to play for the Black Stars under FIFA’s nationality rules.
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Reports from Ghanaian journalist Saddick Adams of Angel FM added fuel to the debate earlier this week. Adams revealed that Nketiah’s family had confirmed renewed interest from the striker to don Ghana’s colours.
“Spoke to Eddie Nketiah’s family this weekend to get clarity on the stories about his switch. The source admitted that Eddie Nketiah had previously spoken to the Ghana coach and some GFA top officials but he had not settled at his club yet so couldn’t make a decision,” Adams posted on X.
Spoke to Eddie Nketiah’s family this weekend to get clarity on the stories about his switch.
The source admitted that Eddie Nketiah had previously spoken to the Ghana coach and some GFA top officials but he had not settled at his club yet so couldn’t make a decision.
However,… pic.twitter.com/md6hnXfu6w
— Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) October 13, 2025
“However, Nketiah is now settled and, at 26, matured enough and ready to ‘give his very best’ if Ghana calls now. Says he has Ghana blood running through him so his ‘identity is unquestionable’. Basically, he’s open to playing for Ghana now.”
Despite his openness, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has recently taken a firm stance on recruiting players who initially turned down invitations to join the national team. GFA president Kurt Okraku, speaking to 3 Sports, made it clear that commitment will be the key criterion moving forward.
“Players who have not shown enough commitment to the Ghanaian flag will not be part of us,” Okraku declared.
Kurt Okraku: Only true patriots will wear the Black Stars jersey
Nketiah, who joined Crystal Palace during the summer, was in action on Wednesday night as his side knocked Liverpool out of the EFL Cup, a sign that the forward is beginning to rediscover his rhythm at club level while weighing a potentially life-changing international decision.
