Carlos Queiroz names Ghana squad for AFCON 2027 qualifiers as Kudus, Djiku return

Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has announced his squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, with Mohammed Kudus and Alexander Djiku making their return to the Black Stars.

Captain Jordan Ayew has been named in the squad despite World Cup criticism, while Thomas Partey misses out due to an injury setback.

Kudus makes his return to the national team after missing Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign because of injury. The Tottenham forward spent seven months on the sidelines but has now recovered and is available for selection as the Black Stars begin their journey towards the 2027 AFCON.

Djiku has also been recalled after his absence from the World Cup due to injury. The Spartak Moscow defender has returned to full fitness and has impressed at club level, featuring for the entire 90 minutes in three successive matches before the international break.

In goal, Hearts of Oak shot-stopper Benjamin Asare keeps his place alongside Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Joseph Anang.

Nathaniel Adjei has earned a recall after almost a year away from the national team. The defender has been rewarded for his strong performances with French Ligue 1 side Lorient.

Queiroz has also handed opportunities to Jan Gyamerah of SV Elversberg and Ronald Donkor of New York Red Bulls following their encouraging displays for their respective clubs.

Ibrahim Osman and Sassuolo midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana are among the other players returning to the Black Stars squad as Queiroz looks to blend experience with players who are currently enjoying good club form.

Ghana will open their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign away against Côte d’Ivoire on September 24 before welcoming The Gambia to the Accra Sports Stadium on September 29.

The Black Stars will then travel to Morocco for an international friendly against the Atlas Lions on October 4 as Queiroz continues preparations for the next phase of his tenure.