Coach Carlos Queiroz has named a bold 28-man Black Stars squad for Ghana’s preparation camp in Cardiff and the international friendly against Wales on June 2, recalling several players returning from long injury layoffs and national team absence as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Portuguese tactician has handed major returns to Baba Abdul Rahman, Ernest Nuamah, Abdul Mumin, and Alidu Seidu in what many see as the beginning of Ghana’s serious World Cup rebuild ahead of a difficult Group L campaign against Panama, England, and Croatia.
Baba Rahman makes his long-awaited return to the Black Stars after staying away from the national team since September 2023, following criticism and abuse from sections of supporters over Ghana’s poor performances.
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The experienced left-back rebuilt his confidence at Greek side PAOK, where he enjoyed an impressive campaign, making 35 appearances while contributing three goals and three assists.
Queiroz believes the return of experienced and battle-tested players could prove crucial as Ghana prepares for the tournament in North America.
“Experience, mentality, and tactical discipline will be key for us at the World Cup,” Queiroz reportedly told team officials ahead of camp.
Another major boost for the Black Stars is the return of Olympique Lyon winger Ernest Nuamah, who is back after recovering from a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury that kept him sidelined for almost a year.
Nuamah’s return is expected to add pace, creativity, and direct attacking threat to Ghana’s frontline.
Rayo Vallecano defender Abdul Mumin has also recovered from an ACL setback, while Stade Rennes defender Alidu Seidu and Saint-Étienne midfielder Augustine Boakye fought through injury-plagued seasons to earn recalls.
The squad also reflects Queiroz’s attempt to build a stronger competitive core after periods of inconsistency under previous technical teams.
The Black Stars opened camp at Dragon Park in Cardiff on Sunday ahead of the friendly against Wales, which is expected to provide an early indication of Queiroz’s tactical approach before the World Cup.
Ghana will open its Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto before facing England in Boston and Croatia in Philadelphia.
Queiroz has also introduced youthful prospects into the squad, including Ajax Amsterdam youngster Paul Reverson, who has been invited for assessment after impressing in the Netherlands.
The squad still boasts experienced leaders, including Thomas Partey, captain Jordan Ayew, and Inaki Williams, while Antoine Semenyo arrives in camp in excellent form after a standout season with Manchester City.
Players such as Kamal Deen Sulemana, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, and Christopher Bonsu Baah are also expected to provide energy, pace, and attacking transition play.
Full Black Stars Squad
Goalkeepers
Benjamin Asare, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Anang, Solomon Agbasi
Defenders
Paul Reverson, Baba Abdul Rahman, Gideon Mensah, Marvin Senaya, Alidu Seidu, Abdul Mumin
Midfielders
Jerome Opoku, Jonas Adjetey, Kojo Oppong Peprah, Alexander Djiku, Elisha Owusu, Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Augustine Boakye, Caleb Yirenkyi, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku
Forwards
Kamal Deen Sulemana, Christopher Bonsu Baah, Ernest Nuamah, Antoine Semenyo, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Prince Kwabena Adu, Inaki Williams, Jordan Ayew