Ghana’s coach Otto Addo is banking on the return of Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Inaki Williams, and Alexander Djiku to bolster the Black Stars’ stability as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June.
The quartet withdrew from the Black Stars squad for recent friendlies against Nigeria and Uganda due to various reasons but are expected to rejoin the team for the crucial World Cup qualifiers in two months’ time.
Ghana, four-time Africa champions, will face Mali and the Central African Republic in June’s qualifiers, and Addo believes the return of these key players will enhance the team’s prospects.
Speaking to the FA media, Addo expressed confidence in the squad’s capabilities, particularly with the reinforcement provided by Partey, Kudus, Djiku, and Inaki Williams.
“It’s going to be tough; this is for sure, nothing easy. But when I see the boys, it really gives me big hopes that what we did against Nigeria, especially in the second half, we can do it against any opponent,” Addo emphasized.
“They have to be concentrated, they have to be smart. I am looking forward to the players who are coming back like Mohammed Kudus, Inaki Williams, Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku; they will give the team more stability, and we will be best prepared,” he added.
Addo previously guided the Black Stars to secure qualification for the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar. Ghana edged out Nigeria in the playoff on an away goal rule after playing out a 0-0 draw in Kumasi and a 1-1 draw in Abuja.
As he aims for a second consecutive World Cup qualification with the national team, the outgoing Talent Development coach of Borussia Dortmund is optimistic about Ghana’s chances with the return of key personnel.
