Carlos Queiroz Unveils 28-Man Black Stars Squad for World Cup Prep as Cardiff Camp Opens

Ghana’s head coach, Carlos Queiroz, has officially named a 28-man provisional squad as the Black Stars begin their final preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team has opened a training camp at Dragon Park in Cardiff, Wales, ahead of a high-profile international friendly against the Welsh national team on June 2, 2026. This training period serves as a critical assessment phase, as Queiroz must trim the roster to 26 players before the tournament begins in North America. The squad reflects a strategic blend of emerging talent and veteran experience, with the technical team focusing on tactical drills and fitness to ensure the Black Stars are ready for their fourth World Cup appearance.

The squad selection has sparked significant debate due to notable returns and controversial omissions. Defender Abdul Rahman Baba makes a highly anticipated return to the national fold for the first time since September 2023, alongside winger Ernest Nuamah and Ajax prospect Paul Reverson. Thomas Partey is also included despite ongoing legal issues in the UK. However, the absence of several key figures has drawn criticism from fans and public figures like musician Kofi Kinaata. Notable omissions include the injured Mohammed Kudus, veteran Andre Ayew, and in-form players such as Joseph Paintsil, Felix Afena-Gyan, and Derrick Köhn. While Köhn’s camp clarified that his nationality switch is fully documented, his exclusion remains a point of contention among supporters who felt his recent performances merited a spot.

To ensure the team’s success, FIFA and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) have finalized logistical and financial arrangements. FIFA confirmed that the Black Stars will be based at Bryant University in Boston during the group stages, a move designed to ease travel logistics for their matches across the United States and Canada. Domestically, a massive fundraising drive has secured vital financial backing. The Bank of Ghana pledged GH¢5 million, the Ghana Revenue Authority contributed US$300,000, and SIC Insurance added GH¢1 million to the campaign. These funds are designated for the Sports Ministry to facilitate world-class preparation and participation costs, underscoring a national commitment to the team’s campaign.

As the Black Stars gear up for their Group L encounters against Panama, England, and Croatia, the atmosphere remains a mix of caution and optimism. Coach Queiroz has issued a rallying cry for unity and sacrifice, describing the challenge as a "Mission (Im)possible" that requires national pride and discipline. Former GFA President Kwesi Nyantakyi has also urged Ghanaians not to write off the team despite recent struggles, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of football. Following the friendly in Cardiff, the team will travel to the United States for a final warm-up match before their opening World Cup fixture against Panama in Toronto on June 17, 2026.