2026 World Cup: GFA appeals for patience in Black Stars squad announcement
The Head of Public Relations and Strategy at the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Neil Armstrong Mortagbe, has urged calm and patience over the delayed announcement of Ghana’s Black Stars squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His appeal comes amid rising anticipation across the country as supporters await the official list for the tournament, set to be staged in North America this summer.
Speaking to 3Sports, Mortagbe stressed that the process remains on course, with head coach Carlos Queiroz still finalising his selection in line with FIFA’s submission deadline.
“There’s a deadline that FIFA has given for the countries to release it. Until that deadline passes, I don’t think there’s anything to be worried about. Carlos Queiroz is working, and they are preparing to release a squad that we believe will go out there and defend the honour of mother Ghana,” he said.
Mortagbe also explained that the squad selected for Friday’s friendly against Mexico forms part of a broader assessment of players as the technical team fine-tunes tactics and evaluates depth ahead of the final selection.
“It’s a preparatory game. I believe there’s a purpose for why the squad that was called up was selected. From a football fan’s perspective, there may be expectations to see more familiar faces.
“But from the technical team’s perspective, they also want to explore other options to add competitiveness to the final squad. That, I believe, is why we saw the call-up we did.
“After tomorrow’s game, I reckon the technical team will be in a position to release the long-awaited squad for mother Ghana,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars continue their build-up to the tournament with a friendly against Mexico on Saturday morning.