Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz has revealed that Ghana only had their full squad available on the eve of Tuesday’s friendly against Wales, describing the situation as one of the unique challenges facing national team coaches in modern football.
The Portuguese coach said player welfare had been prioritised after many squad members arrived in camp following the conclusion of their club commitments across Europe.
According to Queiroz, more than half of the squad were unavailable when preparations began because they were still involved in league and cup competitions with their clubs.
“Let’s be realistic. More than 50% of the squad wasn’t here with us,” Queiroz said.
“They only started arriving because of club games until May 25. They needed rest, three, four, five days depending on minutes and intensity.”
Queiroz also criticised the scheduling of some domestic competitions, noting that certain countries continued to stage cup finals beyond FIFA’s recommended release period for international duty.
“Some countries didn’t even respect FIFA’s mandatory period and scheduled cup finals until May 29. This is the modern game.”
The Ghana coach explained that managing player fitness and mental freshness had become a key part of international football, particularly ahead of a major tournament.
“It’s our duty to make the right decisions to manage fitness and mental freshness. We want players to come here excited, not exhausted.”
Despite Ghana being less than three weeks away from the World Cup, Queiroz revealed that Monday’s session was the first time he had the entire squad available.
“Today, the day before the game, is the first time we have the team together. That’s an innovation for my football book.”
“To go into a World Cup warm-up friendly with players arriving the day before, it’s about innovations in the game.”
The Black Stars face Wales in Cardiff on Tuesday before travelling to North America for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will take on Panama, England and Croatia in Group L.
