Eddie Nketiah’s hopes of representing Ghana on football’s grandest stage may have come to an abrupt and painful end.
Once seen as a potential solution to Ghana’s striking woes after former Sunderland star Asamoah Gyan retired, Nketiah has reportedly been left out of Otto Addo’s plans following the Black Stars’ qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ghana says ‘No’ to Eddie Nketiah
According to Flashscore, Ghana’s technical team has decided to move forward without the 26-year-old striker. The coaching staff, led by Otto Addo, is said to be prioritising forwards who offer a different skill set and greater consistency in front of goal.
Sources further suggest that Nketiah’s earlier decision to turn down Ghana’s approach before the 2022 World Cup still lingers in memory.
His reluctance at the time reportedly left a lasting impression, and though he and his representatives have since expressed renewed interest, the door now appears firmly shut.
Since leaving Arsenal in 2024 in search of regular football, Nketiah’s move to Crystal Palace has not quite delivered the breakthrough he hoped for.
While he played a part in helping the Eagles clinch the FA Cup and Community Shield, and even netted a memorable winner against Liverpool, his overall numbers have been underwhelming.
As reported by Transfermarkt, Nketiah has scored just nine goals in 43 appearances — a modest return for a striker once tipped for stardom.
This dip in form has not gone unnoticed by Ghana’s technical handlers, who are believed to value loyalty and contribution during the qualifiers over last-minute interest.
That stance effectively rules out dual nationals like Nketiah, who previously kept their options open until the World Cup ticket was secured.
With Jordan Ayew and Brandon Thomas-Asante holding their places, and rising prospects like Jerry Afriyie and Prince Adu knocking on the door, Nketiah’s chances of a late call-up look slim.
Between two Flags: England or Ghana?
For Nketiah — born in London to Ghanaian parents — the situation is as complicated as it is emotional. His dream of donning the Three Lions shirt appears to have faded, while his late attempt to align with Ghana has seemingly come too late.
What once looked like a golden international opportunity now feels like a missed chapter — a reminder that in football, timing can be everything.
As Ghana turn their attention to North America 2026, Otto Addo’s men seem focused on continuity and cohesion, while Nketiah is left to reflect on where his international future truly lies.