Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has expressed his willingness to assist in bringing top talents such as Eddie Nketiah and Callum Hudson-Odoi into the Black Stars setup as the nation gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His remarks come amid mounting speculation about the possible nationality switch of the two players, who have both featured for England at various youth levels.
In an interview with Asempa FM (via 3news), Adams clarified that while he is open to supporting efforts to recruit these players, the ultimate authority on team selection lies with the national team’s technical handlers.
“Every Ghanaian who knows how to play has the opportunity to go to the World Cup if the coach decides that he wants,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter if the player was part of the team during the qualifiers or not. It doesn’t matter if the player has played before or not.”
The Minister further addressed reports suggesting that discussions were ongoing about recalling former Black Stars defender Baba Rahman, emphasizing that the final call on player selection remains with the technical team.
“I have heard that other people want to talk to get Baba Rahman back to the team, so the coach will decide whether to bring the player. Maybe they were looking elsewhere, but we will not discriminate on the day the player played during the qualifiers or not.
“I have watched some players, and I believe that they are good enough. Despite their talent, the final selection of players like Eddie Nketiah and Hudson-Odoi remains with the technical team and the coach.”
Adams also disclosed that he has previously played a behind-the-scenes role in helping to recruit some of the current Black Stars players, adding that he remains ready to continue offering such support.
“That is my responsibility, and if I am contacted to help, I will. Even some of the players playing now, I did some background work to get them to the national team. It’s not about my party people but even people in opposition, I talked to them just to bring them to the national team, so whoever they want to bring in, I will be there to assist,” he added.
His comments came shortly after Ghana’s 1-0 win over Comoros in their final 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Mohammed Kudus’ strike in the 47th minute sealed the victory, confirming Ghana’s qualification for the tournament, their fifth World Cup appearance since making their debut in 2006.
