Kudus is special, but I’m impressed with some players abroad – Stephen Appiah on Kudus injury
Vice chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, Stephen Appiah, says the possible absence of Mohammed Kudus at the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be a significant setback for Ghana, as concerns grow over the midfielder’s fitness ahead of the tournament.
Kudus is currently recovering from a hamstring injury suffered in January, with reports suggesting the setback could keep him out of the World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Ghana international had initially been expected to regain full fitness in April, but a recurrence of the injury has cast doubt over his availability for the competition.
Speaking to Asempa FM, Appiah acknowledged the importance of the former Ajax and West Ham United player to the national team but insisted Ghana must remain confident regardless of who is available.
“We know his contribution to the team, but even during our playing days, when a player was not available, we still went ahead to play,” Appiah said.
“We should maintain that same belief that when someone is not around, another player can step in and replace him.
“Kudus is special, and when he plays, he gives the team a lift. But we have to pray and see what happens because I am also impressed with some of our players performing abroad.”
Before his injury, Kudus had made 19 appearances this season and scored two goals.
Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
The Black Stars will begin their World Cup campaign against Panama at BMO Field in Toronto on 17 June before facing England in Boston six days later.
Their final group-stage fixture will be against Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on 27 June.
Ghana will head into the tournament hoping to avoid another early exit after disappointing group-stage eliminations at the 2014 and 2022 FIFA World Cups.
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