Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has drawn a firm line in the sand regarding player selection ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, declaring that the national team will not be a refuge for “mercenaries.”
Okraku made the strong statement in response to mounting debate over the possible inclusion of foreign-born talents such as Eddie Nketiah, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Francis Amuzu, players who have previously hesitated to commit to the Black Stars.
In an interview with 3Sports, the GFA president was unequivocal about the kind of players he wants representing Ghana on football’s biggest stage.
“I don’t want mercenaries coming to Ghana. I don’t want players jumping on board just because we’ve qualified for the Mundial. I want players who love Ghana, who play from the heart, with passion, and are proud to represent the nation in every competition,” he noted.
Francis Amuzu expresses desire to represent Ghana at 2026 World Cup
Okraku stressed that donning the Black Stars jersey must be viewed as an honour, not an afterthought or a convenience. He cautioned that those who previously turned down invitations or treated the national team with indifference should not expect a warm welcome now that Ghana has secured its ticket to the World Cup.
According to the GFA boss, the road to success in 2026 will be built on unity, loyalty, and genuine national pride, qualities he insists will define the next chapter of the Black Stars.
