Ghana recall Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku as Thomas Partey misses Morocco friendly

Carlos Queiroz has recalled Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku to the Ghana squad, while captain Jordan Ayew has also been included for the upcoming international window.

Thomas Partey is the most notable absentee, with the midfielder unavailable because of ongoing fitness problems.

The Black Stars begin their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Cote d’Ivoire on Thursday, 24 September, in Bouake. They then host The Gambia at Accra Sports Stadium on 29 September before travelling to Morocco for an international friendly against the Atlas Lions on 4 October.

Kudus returns after missing Ghana’s 2026 World Cup campaign because of injury. The 7-month lay-off kept him away from football, but he has since recovered and is available to Queiroz again.

Djiku, who plays for Spartak Moscow, was also ruled out of the World Cup by injury. He has since regained his fitness and established himself in regular club action, completing 3 consecutive 90-minute matches before the international break.

Ayew has been selected despite limited playing time since joining Sheffield United. Queiroz has retained faith in the captain’s experience and leadership as Ghana begin their qualifying programme.

Partey’s omission is the main surprise in the squad. His continued physical difficulties have prevented him from being considered by the coaching staff for this window.

There are also several returning and uncapped players in the group. Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare retains his place alongside Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Joseph Anang.

Nathaniel Adjei has been recalled after an absence of almost a year. His return follows a series of strong performances for Lorient in the French league.

Queiroz has also rewarded players for their club form, including Elversberg midfielder Yan Gjeshmer and New York Red Bulls player Ronald Donkor.

Ibrahim Osman is included, while Sassuolo midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana is another player to return to Ghana’s plans.

The Ghana Football Association confirmed the squad on 18 September 2026, describing the team as ready for the task ahead. The announcement listed the matches against Cote d’Ivoire and The Gambia as the Black Stars’ Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, followed by the friendly against Morocco.

Ghana’s first two fixtures provide the opening test of Queiroz’s qualifying campaign, before the meeting with Morocco concludes the international period.