Dutch-born midfielder Ernest Poku has emerged as one of the standout names in discussions around potential nationality switches ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Ghana firmly in the conversation.

The 22-year-old, who is of Ghanaian descent and was raised by Ghanaian parents in the Netherlands, has enjoyed a breakthrough season with Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen. His performances have played a key role in the club’s run to the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League, underlining his growing influence at the highest level of European football.

Poku, a former AZ Alkmaar player, previously shared the dressing room with Black Stars-linked names Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro and Sadiq Ibrahim, further strengthening his ties to Ghanaian football circles. This season, the versatile attacker has contributed four goals and four assists across all competitions for the BayArena side.

Despite his strong connection to Ghana, Poku has stopped short of committing his international future. In an interview with Nigerian journalist Oma Okatugba in December 2025, he spoke warmly about his roots while stressing that no final decision had been made.

“Yes, I’m raised a Ghanaian, both parents are Ghanaian,” Poku said. “But I can’t tell for now if I want to switch nationalities at the moment. I have to consult my parents and my agent before coming to a conclusion.”

Fluent in Twi, Poku also expressed affection for Ghanaian culture, food and music, name-checking dancehall star Shatta Wale as a personal favourite.

“I love Ghana, the culture, the food, the music,” he added. “I love Shatta Wale so much.”

His comments have reignited debate among fans and pundits over whether the in-form Leverkusen midfielder should be persuaded to don the Black Stars jersey as Ghana look ahead to the 2026 World Cup. For now, Poku remains focused on his club football, while his international future continues to attract growing attention on both sides of the divide.