Queiroz Banks on Premier League Core as Ghana Names World Cup Squad Without Kudus
Portuguese manager drops record cap holder André Ayew while relying on European-based talent for Group L campaign
Carlos Queiroz has finalised Ghana's 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup with defender Derrick Luckassen replacing injured Alexander Djiku as the only change from the provisional selection. The Portuguese manager faces his biggest test yet with key stars Mohammed Kudus and Mohammed Salisu ruled out through injury.
The squad announcement comes as Ghana prepares for a daunting Group L campaign against England, Croatia and Panama. With the expanded 48-team format offering more qualification spots, Ghana's path to the knockout stages remains treacherous without their talismanic Tottenham forward.
Queiroz's Calculated Gamble: Experience Over Sentiment
The decision to exclude andre-andre" class="entity-link entity-link--player">andre-ayew" class="entity-link entity-link--player">André Ayew, Ghana's record cap holder and brother of captain jordan" class="entity-link entity-link--team">jordan-ayew" class="entity-link entity-link--player">Jordan Ayew, signals Queiroz's ruthless approach to squad building. The NAC Breda forward's omission marks the end of an era for Ghanaian football.
Djiku lesionou-se durante a final da Taça. Foi uma decisão muito difícil (...). A substituição foi baseada na observação. Não trabalhamos apenas com 11 ou 22 jogadores
Queiroz explained his selection philosophy when discussing Djiku's replacement, emphasising the depth of his scouting network. The former Portugal, Iran and Egypt manager has opted for European-based experience throughout his squad.
Premier League Spine Dominates Selection
The squad features a strong Premier League contingent including:
- Thomas Partey (Villarreal, on loan from Arsenal)
- Antoine Semenyo (Manchester City)
- Jordan Ayew (Leicester City)
- Fatawu (Leicester City)
- Brandon Thomas-Asante (Coventry City)
This English top-flight experience forms the backbone of Queiroz's tactical approach, with players accustomed to high-intensity football and tactical sophistication.
The Kudus-Sized Hole in Ghana's World Cup Dreams
Mohammed Kudus's absence leaves Ghana without their most creative and dynamic attacking threat. The Tottenham forward has been Ghana's standout performer over the past 18 months, contributing crucial goals and assists in qualifying.
Attacking Options Without Star Power
Queiroz must now rely on Iñaki Williams and Antoine Semenyo to provide the cutting edge. Williams brings La Liga experience from Athletic Bilbao, while Semenyo offers pace and directness from his time at Manchester City.
The inclusion of Ernest Nuamah (Lyon) and Kamal Deen Sulemana (Atalanta) provides alternative options, but neither possesses Kudus's game-changing ability in tight matches.
Monaco defender Mohammed Salisu's injury compounds Ghana's problems. His absence leaves the defence vulnerable, particularly against England's potent attack.
Group L Reality Check: Can Ghana Compete Without Their Stars?
Ghana's World Cup campaign faces immediate scrutiny in Group L. The Black Stars must navigate fixtures against three formidable opponents without their best players.
Historical Context Offers Little Comfort
Ghana's recent World Cup record provides sobering context:
- 2010: Last 16 exit (penalty shootout vs Uruguay)
- 2014: Group stage elimination
- 2022: Group stage elimination
The Black Stars' World Cup history shows they've struggled to progress beyond the group stage in recent tournaments even with stronger squads.
Tactical Flexibility Required
Queiroz's extensive international experience with Portugal, Iran, Colombia, Egypt, Qatar and Oman suggests tactical pragmatism will be Ghana's approach. The Portuguese manager must maximise his squad's collective strength to compensate for individual absences.
The midfield trio of Thomas Partey, Elisha Owusu (Auxerre) and Fatawu will need to control matches against technically superior opposition. Ghana's hopes rest on defensive solidity and counter-attacking opportunities.
What Happens Next
Ghana faces Wales in a friendly in Cardiff before travelling to the United States for their World Cup campaign. The match provides Queiroz a final opportunity to test his tactical approach without Kudus and Salisu.
The expanded 48-team format offers Ghana a potential lifeline with more qualification spots available. However, their Group L opponents suggest even third place might prove beyond this depleted squad. Queiroz's ability to forge a cohesive unit from his European-based selections will determine whether Ghana can defy expectations in North America.
SportSignals is an independent publication. Views expressed are our own.
Sources
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Mohammed Kudus not in Ghana's World Cup squad?
Mohammed Kudus has been ruled out of Ghana's 2026 World Cup squad due to injury. The Tottenham forward was Ghana's most influential attacking player but cannot participate in the tournament.
Who replaced Alexander Djiku in Ghana's World Cup squad?
Derrick Luckassen replaced Alexander Djiku in Ghana's final 26-man World Cup squad. Djiku was injured during a cup final, forcing Carlos Queiroz to make the late change.
What teams will Ghana face in World Cup Group L?
Ghana will face England, Croatia and Panama in World Cup Group L. Carlos Queiroz's side faces a challenging path to the knockout stages despite the expanded 48-team format.
