Black Stars Management Committee vice chairman Stephen Appiah believes Ghana have enough depth to remain competitive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup even if star midfielder Mohammed Kudus is unavailable for the tournament.
Kudus is currently battling a hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined since January, raising fears he could miss the global showpiece set to be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Although the former AFC Ajax and West Ham United F.C. playmaker had initially been tipped for a return in April, complications during rehabilitation have created uncertainty over his recovery timeline.
Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM, Appiah acknowledged the enormous value Kudus brings to the national team but stressed that Ghana must be prepared to move forward regardless of the situation.
“We know his contribution to the team, but even during our playing days, when a player was not available, we still went ahead to play the game,” Appiah said.
“So we should continue with that belief that when someone is not around, another player will step in and replace him.”
Asamoah Gyan fears huge void if Mohammed Kudus misses 2026 World Cup
The former Ghana captain also highlighted the positive performances being delivered by several Ghanaian players abroad, insisting the national team still has quality options capable of stepping up on the biggest stage.
“Kudus is him, and when he is available and plays, he gives the team a lift,” he added.
“But we should just pray and see what happens because I am equally impressed with the performance of some of our players abroad.”
Before suffering the injury setback, Kudus had featured in 19 matches and scored twice during the season.
At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ghana have been placed in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama at BMO Field on June 17 before taking on England in Boston on June 23. Their final group encounter will be against Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field on June 27.
