LA Galaxy winger Joseph Paintsil has spoken candidly about the frustration and emotional toll of missing out on Ghana’s final squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, describing the experience as a difficult but defining moment in his international career.
Paintsil had been firmly in contention heading into the tournament. The former KRC Genk attacker was included in Otto Addo’s provisional squad and was enjoying one of the most productive spells of his career in Belgium at the time, registering six goals and five assists in just 13 league appearances.
Expectations were high that his form would earn him a place on the plane to Qatar.
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However, when the final list was unveiled, Paintsil’s name was absent, a decision that left the forward both surprised and disheartened.
Speaking to Citi Sports, the Black Stars attacker admitted the exclusion was tough to take but insisted he respected the coach’s authority:
“It was strange, and I was unhappy, but I always have to accept the decision of the coach. I was disappointed, but my job is to stay focused. There are more World Cups ahead, and my hope is to be part of the squad for this next one.”
Rather than allowing the setback to derail his ambitions, Paintsil channelled the disappointment into renewed determination. Since then, he has rebuilt momentum with consistent performances at club level and has played a significant role in Ghana’s qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup, putting himself firmly back in contention for international honours.
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With Ghana set to compete at the next global showpiece, the winger is now widely expected to be among the names considered when Otto Addo names his final squad. The Black Stars coach is scheduled to announce the team on June 1, a moment that could mark a long-awaited return to the World Cup stage for Paintsil.
