The Black Stars squad has been under intense scrutiny as the team prepares for major fixtures in 2026, including international friendlies and the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Injuries to several key players have impacted coach Otto Addo’s selection and tactics, prompting updates from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and national team camp.
One of the biggest blows for Ghana has been the loss of defender Mohammed Salisu, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and is set to miss the 2026 World Cup. His absence leaves a gap in the heart of the defence that the coaching staff must address.
Midfielder Francis Abu has been sidelined with injury but remains optimistic about returning to full fitness. He continues rehabilitation and hopes to make the squad for future matches, including the World Cup.
Several other Black Stars players, including Ernest Nuamah, Daniel Kofi Kyereh, and Tariq Lamptey, have been undergoing rehabilitation for ACL and related injuries as they strive to be fit in time for major tournaments.
In addition to long-term injuries, some players have withdrawn from recent camps due to fitness issues:
- Iñaki Williams and Brandon Thomas-Asante pulled out of the squad ahead of the March 2026 friendlies, prompting coach Otto Addo to make tactical adjustments.
- Forward Brandon Thomas-Asante expressed disappointment at missing out due to injury but is focused on recovery and future contribution.
- Ghana called up Ransford Yeboah Königsdörffer as a late addition to bolster the attack in light of these absences.
The GFA has publicly acknowledged concerns about the growing list of injured players as the World Cup approaches. GFA president Kurt Okraku emphasized that injuries could affect the team’s preparations and performance if not managed carefully.
Coach Otto Addo has had to adapt his squad and tactical plans due to the injury situation. Despite the setbacks, he remains confident in the squad’s depth and ability to compete:
“If someone gets injured, it is not always a good situation… But it will also be a good opportunity for others to show themselves,” Addo said, noting that replacements like Königsdörffer can step up.
The Black Stars’ recent friendlies against Austria and Germany provided opportunities to test alternative combinations and give chances to players who may not have featured otherwise.
With the World Cup just months away, the fitness of key players will be crucial. Ghana must balance the need to manage injuries with the urgency to build team cohesion and competitive form. The next international windows and training camps will be pivotal in finalizing a strong and fit squad.
The Black Stars squad update shows a team navigating through injury challenges while striving to remain competitive on the international stage. As recovery progresses and tactical adjustments continue, fans will be watching closely to see which players return and how new or replacement players seize their opportunities.
