Omanghana
Carlos Queiroz has announced his first squad as head coach of Ghana national football team ahead of an international friendly against Mexico scheduled for May 22, 2026.
The 23-man squad, unveiled on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, marks the beginning of a new era for the Black Stars following Queiroz’s appointment in April after the departure of Otto Addo.
With the match falling outside the official FIFA international calendar, several established senior players including Thomas Partey, Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo, and Iñaki Williams were unavailable for selection.
Queiroz is instead using the fixture as what officials described as an “extended audition” for emerging players, fringe internationals, and standout performers from the Ghana Premier League.
The squad includes 14 uncapped players, signaling a major rebuild and renewed focus on youth development ahead of future international competitions.
Six players from the Ghana Premier League earned call-ups, led by Salim Adams of Medeama SC. Other home-based players selected include Razak Simpson of Nations FC and Solomon Agbasi of Hearts of Oak.
The squad also features the return of Felix Afena-Gyan, who currently plays for Amedspor, and Majeed Ashimeru of La Louvière after periods away from the national team setup.
Other notable names in the squad include defender Nathaniel Adjei and goalkeeper Solomon Agbasi as Queiroz assesses potential additions to the national team pool.
The Mexico friendly forms part of Ghana’s preparations for upcoming international assignments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign and a scheduled meeting with Wales on June 2, 2026.
Football analysts say the squad selection reflects Queiroz’s intention to widen Ghana’s talent base while building a competitive team capable of challenging at both continental and global levels.
Source: Omanghana
