Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dealt a major blow after two key players, Mohammed Kudus and Mohammed Salisu, were officially ruled out due to injury.
The announcement overshadowed head coach Carlos Queiroz’s unveiling of a 28-man provisional squad on Monday in Cardiff, where the Black Stars are beginning their build-up ahead of a June 2 friendly against Wales.
Kudus, one of Ghana’s most influential attacking players, failed to recover from a quadriceps injury sustained while playing for Tottenham Hotspur. Despite initial hopes of a return, a setback in rehabilitation has left surgery as a possible option, ruling him out of the tournament.
Defender Mohammed Salisu also misses out after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in January while playing for AS Monaco. Team doctor Dr. Prince Pambo confirmed his recovery timeline of nine months, ending any chance of World Cup participation.
Their absence leaves Ghana facing a daunting challenge in Group L against Panama, England, and Croatia. Kudus’ creativity and Salisu’s defensive composure were expected to be central to the team’s strategy.
- Returns from Injury: Ernest Nuamah, Baba Abdul Rahman, Abdul Mumin, and Alidu Seidu all return after long layoffs.
- New Call-Up: Young defender Paul Reverson earns his first senior national team invitation.
- Experienced Core: Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey, and Antoine Semenyo headline the squad’s experienced contingent.
With preparations underway, attention now turns to whether Ghana’s returning players can step up to fill the void left by two of the team’s most important stars.
