Leicester City manager Martí Cifuentes has praised Ghanaian winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku for his determination to rejoin the Black Stars ahead of this month’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers ; despite recovering from a long-term injury.
The 21-year-old, who has been in sparkling form for the Foxes this season, returns to the national team after almost a year out with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. His comeback is timely, as Ghana prepare for decisive Group I fixtures against the Central African Republic and Comoros.
Speaking to club media before the international break, Cifuentes hailed Issahaku’s progress but urged the Black Stars’ technical team to manage his workload carefully.
“We’ve been speaking with the medical and performance departments about how Abdul is. There’s improvement every week,” Cifuentes said. “I would like the Ghana national team to take care of him because he’s still in a period where he hasn’t played many full games. I’m sure they’ll take good care of him ; he’s an important player for us, but also for them.”
The Spanish coach also revealed Issahaku’s eagerness to represent Ghana again, describing him as mentally strong and highly motivated.
“He wanted to go ; that’s the most important thing. These are important games for them, and he’s definitely looking really good.”
Issahaku has scored three goals and provided one assist for Leicester in the English Championship this season, playing a vital role in their promotion charge.
Ghana currently top Group I of the CAF World Cup qualifiers and need four points from their final two games to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
