I don’t want mercenaries in the Black Stars – Kurt Okraku

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has made it clear that only players with genuine passion and commitment to Ghana will earn a place in the Black Stars squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The GFA boss addressed ongoing discussions about potential call-ups for foreign-born players such as Eddie Nketiah, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Francis Amuzu, stressing that Ghana’s qualification for the World Cup should not suddenly attract players who previously showed little interest.Speaking in an interview with 3Sports, Okraku stated firmly: "I don’t want mercenaries coming to Ghana. I don’t want players jumping on board just because we’ve qualified for the Mundial. I want players who love Ghana, who play from the heart, with passion, and are proud to represent the nation in every competition."He emphasised that wearing the national colours is a privilege that comes with responsibility, insisting that players who once rejected invitations or showed a lack of respect for the country will not be reconsidered.