Former Black Stars winger Albert Adomah has shared his thoughts on the ongoing debate surrounding the inclusion of dual-national players in Ghana’s national team, stressing the need for balance between merit, fairness, and national interest.
Speaking in an interview with 3Sports, the former international drew from his own journey to highlight why the conversation remains important as Ghana prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Adomah, who earned 19 caps for Ghana and featured at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2014 FIFA World Cup, understands what it means to wear the Black Stars jersey. Born in London but raised partly in Ghana, he represents the very profile at the center of this discussion. His decision to play for Ghana was driven by emotional attachment and identity, a principle he continues to advocate.
Adomah’s view here highlights inclusivity and national unity. He suggests that any player with Ghanaian roots who is willing to represent the country should be embraced. However, he also subtly points to the importance of context, particularly when it comes to players joining at major tournaments without being part of the qualification journey.
“For me it’s not difficult [inviting dual nationals]. If the player is available and he wants to come, then it should not be a problem. I understand maybe they have not played the qualifiers and will be coming straight to the World Cup then that’s a different story but if they are Ghanaian, then you have to welcome them. That’s how I see them.”
Adomah believes Ghana should not make the process of welcoming dual-national players complicated. In his view, if a player is Ghanaian, available for selection, and genuinely wants to represent the country, there should be no resistance toward bringing that player into the fold.
At the same time, he appreciates why some may question the timing of such arrivals, especially when players join at the final stage of a campaign after others have battled through difficult qualifiers. Even so, his position remains that national identity and willingness to commit to Ghana should be enough reason to open the door.
“Because you want your best players to be there but I understand the frustration when you are playing and then someone just come in and take your place. I understand that from the players point of view.
But if the technical staff say these are the players that maybe can get us to the semifinals of the Word Cup then they should be welcome.”
He also acknowledges the emotional side of football. Players who have fought for their place in the team may understandably feel disappointed when a new face arrives and immediately competes for a starting spot. That frustration is real, especially for those who have invested years of hard work and sacrifice in the national setup.
However, Adomah believes the bigger picture must always be considered. If the coaching staff are convinced that certain players can significantly improve Ghana’s chances of making a deep run at the World Cup, then those additions should be embraced for the good of the team.
“Every play who is a Ghanaian, it doesn’t matter if you play in Europe or wherever, if you are good enough and the coaches think you’re the best player in that team, you should be called up. Everyone should be welcomed to the team.
I understand the players’ view that I have worked hard, so you need to do the same thing that I did. Go through the group stages and then get into the World Cup.”
Adomah reinforces the principle of meritocracy, insisting that selection should be based on performance and quality rather than location. At the same time, he recognizes the value of commitment and the belief among players that places should be earned through the entire process.
As Ghana looks to strengthen its squad, players like Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah continue to be linked with potential involvement in the future. While some may miss out due to injuries or timing, their inclusion remains part of a broader strategy to keep Ghana competitive.
Adomah’s stance ultimately reflects a balanced approach—welcoming talent from across the globe while maintaining fairness and respect for those who have contributed along the way.
