Ghana set to name three home-based players in Black Stars World Cup squad
Ghana is expected to name three locally based players in their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in a move widely seen as a strong endorsement of the country’s domestic league.
The Black Stars secured qualification for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and expanded to feature 48 teams for the first time.
Drawn in a difficult Group L, Ghana will face England, Croatia and Panama in the opening stage of the competition.
The Black Stars begin their campaign against Panama in Toronto on 17 June before taking on England in Boston six days later. They will wrap up their group matches against 2018 finalists Croatia in Philadelphia on 27 June.
Reports indicate that head coach Carlos Queiroz is seriously considering several standout performers from the Ghana Premier League, with three home-based players likely to make the final squad.
The potential inclusion has generated excitement among local football fans and club officials, many of whom see it as recognition of the improving standard of the domestic game.
Beyond the sporting significance, the decision could also provide a major financial boost to Ghanaian clubs through FIFA’s Club Benefits Programme.
Under the scheme, clubs are compensated for releasing players for World Cup duty, with FIFA expected to pay about $11,000 per player per day during the tournament period.
Even if Ghana were to exit at the group stage, clubs could still receive payments covering roughly three weeks of player participation, a considerable sum for teams operating with limited financial resources.
The programme was introduced by FIFA to reward clubs for their contribution to player development and international football.
For many observers, the possible selection of local talent represents more than financial opportunity. It is also being viewed as a statement of confidence in Ghana’s home-grown players and the competitiveness of the Ghana Premier League.
Queiroz has already submitted a provisional squad list to FIFA, although changes are expected before the final squad announcement ahead of the team’s departure for North America.
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