2026 World Cup: Didi Dramani backs inclusion of Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah in final Black Stars squad

Former Black Stars assistant coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani has called for the inclusion of Eddie Nketiah and Callum Hudson-Odoi in Ghana's squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

The pair have reportedly expressed interest in switching nationality following Ghana's qualification to the Mundial.

Their interest in playing for the senior national team has sparked debate among football fans and pundits.

Dramani, who was part of Otto Addo’s technical bench at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, revealed that efforts were made to recruit both players ahead of the tournament, though those attempts proved unsuccessful at the time.

Nketiah, currently with Crystal Palace, and Nottingham Forest winger Hudson-Odoi were both overlooked for Ghana's friendly fixtures against Austria and Germany as part of the team's preparations for the global showpiece.

Speaking to Graphic Sports, Dramani acknowledged the timing challenges facing the technical team but maintained that the door should remain open.

According to the Hearts of Oak head coach, the qualities of Nketiah and Hudson-Odoi are undeniable, and their international allegiance should be handled with care.

“I personally think team building takes time, and too many new faces may not find the cohesion and fluidity of the team chemistry. Three months is too short to introduce too much freshness,” he told Graphic Sports.

However, he was emphatic about the calibre of the two players.

“Ghana has been fortunate to have quality in the wide areas, but the quality of these two players is huge. I remember we made several attempts to get them to join the Black Stars before and after Qatar,” he said.

He also urged patience and understanding, describing nationality switches as deeply personal, career-defining decisions.

“These are lifetime decisions, and players need time to make such long-term choices about their careers. I’m not sure of their current status, but no one can doubt the quality and ability they would bring to the team,” he added.

Ghana will play Austria on Friday, March 27, before travelling to Germany in Stuttgart on Monday, March 30.