Carlos Queiroz Includes Mohammed Kudus in Ghana’s provisional World Cup squad despite injury concerns

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has included Mohammed Kudus in the mandatory squad list submitted to FIFA ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the midfielder currently recovering from injury.

The 73-year-old has forwarded the provisional list to world football’s governing body, with the Ghana Football Association expected to announce the final 26-man squad in the coming days.

Kudus’ inclusion comes amid uncertainty over his fitness after the 25-year-old suffered a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season.

Initially expected to return in April, the Tottenham Hotspur forward experienced a setback in his recovery. Although he first opted against surgery, Kudus later underwent a successful operation following advice from medical specialists and is now focused on rehabilitation.

Reports suggest Queiroz, who is set to name his final squad on June 1 is weighing the possibility of naming Kudus in Ghana’s final World Cup squad, with growing optimism that the influential midfielder could recover in time for the Black Stars’ final Group L clash against Croatia.

There is also hope that Kudus could be available for the knockout stage should Ghana advance beyond the group phase.

If selected, the tournament would mark Kudus’ second World Cup appearance after his impressive showing at the 2022 finals in Qatar.

Widely regarded as Ghana’s standout performer during that campaign, Kudus scored twice in the Black Stars’ thrilling 3-2 victory over South Korea — Ghana’s only win before exiting at the group stage.

Since making his debut in 2019, Kudus has netted 13 goals in 46 appearances for the national team and has grown into one of Ghana’s most influential players.

The four-time African champions are preparing for their fifth World Cup appearance at the tournament, which will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Ghana open their Group L campaign against Panama at BMO Field in Toronto on June 17 before facing England in Boston on June 23. The Black Stars will conclude their group-stage fixtures against Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on June 27.

Ahead of the tournament, Ghana will sharpen preparations with international friendlies against Mexico on May 22 and Wales on June 2.