Ghana head coach Otto Addo has announced a 24-man squad for the Black Stars’ upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali, with several high-profile absentees grabbing attention.
The Black Stars will travel to face Chad on Thursday, September 4, before returning home to host Mali four days later in back-to-back Group I fixtures
.While the squad includes Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey whose availability had been in doubt due to an impending court hearing on September 2 the omission of some established names has raised eyebrows.
Captain Andre Ayew, who last featured for the national team earlier in 2024, has once again been left out.
Midfielder Abdul Salis Samed, who recently sealed a move to French side OGC Nice, is also missing.
There is no place for Leicester City winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, who recently returned from an ACL injury and even found the net for his club this season as well as winger Ernest Nuamah who is injured.
EFL League Two goalkeeper Joseph Wollacott is another absentee, alongside Anderlecht midfielder Majeed Ashimeru and Baba Rahman.
On the positive side, Rennes defender Alidu Seidu makes a return after recovering from his long-term ACL injury, having featured for his club less than a week ago but not part of the squad.
Addo’s latest selection continues to fuel discussions over the future direction of the team as Ghana chase qualification for their fifth World Cup appearance.
