Black Stars Withdrawals: 9 New Players Added to Ghana’s AFCON Squad
Asante, Afena-Gyan and Others: Players Added to Black Stars Squad After Withdrawals
Ghana’s Black Stars squad has undergone significant changes ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with Carlos Queiroz adding nine players following medical concerns involving members of the original squad. The additions strengthen Ghana’s defence, midfield and attack as the team prepares for Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia and a friendly against Morocco.
Among the new faces are Brandon Thomas-Asante, Felix Afena-Gyan, Mohammed Fuseini, Benjamin Tetteh, Jonas Adjetey, Alidu Seidu, Ebenezer Annan, Rockson Yeboah and Rahim Ibrahim. The changes provide additional options as Ghana deals with player withdrawals and fitness issues before the AFCON qualifying campaign.

1. Brandon Thomas-Asante Returns to the Black Stars Picture
Brandon Thomas-Asante has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz makes changes ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The Coventry City forward is one of nine players brought into the squad following medical uncertainties involving some members of the original team. The Ghana Football Association confirmed Thomas-Asante among four forwards added to strengthen the squad. (Ghana Football Association)
Thomas-Asante’s return gives Ghana another attacking option at a time when the Black Stars are dealing with several player-availability issues. The latest Black Stars withdrawals have forced Queiroz to reconsider his original plans, with changes affecting both the attacking and defensive areas of the squad.
The forward has already represented Ghana at the senior level and was part of the country’s 2026 World Cup campaign. His recall therefore gives the coaching staff a player who already understands the demands of international football. GBC also reported that Thomas-Asante received a late call-up ahead of Ghana’s qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia. (GBC Ghana Online)
The timing of his inclusion is particularly important. Ghana will face Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24 before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 29. The Black Stars will then face Morocco in an international friendly on October 4. (Ghana Football Association)
Thomas-Asante could therefore be given an opportunity to contribute during a busy international window. His presence increases the number of attacking options available to Queiroz and gives the coach greater flexibility when selecting his forward line.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have already changed the balance of the squad. Antoine Semenyo is unavailable after withdrawing with an ankle problem, while Mohammed Kudus has remained out as he continues his recovery. Jordan Ayew has also been ruled out, creating further changes to Ghana’s attacking options.
Thomas-Asante’s addition does not necessarily mean he will start either qualifier. His selection simply gives Queiroz another player to assess during training and match preparation. The coaching staff can determine how best to use him depending on the opponent, tactical setup and condition of the other forwards.
His club experience with Coventry City also provides another dimension to Ghana’s attack. The forward can compete for opportunities alongside the other attacking players brought into the squad, including Mohammed Fuseini, Benjamin Tetteh and Felix Afena-Gyan. The GFA confirmed all four forwards as part of the nine additions. (Ghana Football Association)
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have therefore created an opportunity for Thomas-Asante to re-establish himself in the national-team setup. A strong performance during this international window could give him further opportunities in future Ghana squads.
For Ghana supporters, his inclusion is also another reminder of the importance of squad depth. International football can change quickly when injuries occur, and coaches need reliable alternatives who can step into the group without a long adjustment period.
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Thomas-Asante’s return comes at an important stage for Ghana. The Black Stars’ withdrawals have forced Queiroz to make late adjustments, but the additional call-ups provide new opportunities for players to contribute.
With the first qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire approaching, attention will now turn to how Queiroz uses his expanded attacking options. For Thomas-Asante, the call-up provides another chance to demonstrate his value to the Ghana national team and compete for a regular place in the Black Stars setup.
2. Felix Afena-Gyan Gets Another Black Stars Opportunity
Felix Afena-Gyan has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz makes changes ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The forward is one of nine players brought into the squad following medical uncertainties that affected several members of the original team. The Ghana Football Association confirmed Afena-Gyan among the attacking players added to strengthen the squad.
Afena-Gyan’s inclusion comes at an important time for the national team. The latest Black Stars withdrawals have reduced the number of established options available to Queiroz, particularly in attack. With players such as Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo and Jordan Ayew unavailable, the coach now has to consider different attacking combinations for the upcoming fixtures.
The addition of Afena-Gyan gives Ghana another player capable of operating in the attacking areas. His pace, movement and ability to play in different positions can provide Queiroz with another option depending on the tactical approach used during the matches.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have also created an opportunity for players who were not part of the original squad to make an impression. Afena-Gyan is one of those players, and his call-up gives him another chance to compete for a place in Ghana’s senior national team.
Ghana’s first assignment is a difficult away match against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24. The Black Stars will then host The Gambia in Accra on September 29 before facing Morocco in an international friendly on October 4. With three matches in a relatively short period, Queiroz needs enough attacking depth to manage his squad effectively.
Afena-Gyan could therefore play an important role during the international window, although his inclusion does not automatically mean he will start. The coaching staff will assess his condition, training performances and tactical suitability before deciding how to use him.
His call-up also adds competition among Ghana’s forwards. Brandon Thomas-Asante, Mohammed Fuseini and Benjamin Tetteh were also added to the squad, giving Queiroz several alternatives in attack. The Ghana Football Association confirmed the nine additions as part of the response to the changing squad situation.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have therefore created an unusual situation in which several players now have an opportunity to make their case for future selection. A strong performance from Afena-Gyan could strengthen his position within the national team setup.
His involvement is also relevant to Ghana’s wider squad-building plans. International managers need players who can step in when injuries or other fitness concerns affect the original selection. Afena-Gyan’s return gives Queiroz another attacking option while allowing the coach to evaluate the depth available to him.
The forward’s inclusion should also be viewed alongside the wider changes to Ghana’s squad. Several defenders and midfielders have also been added, meaning the coaching staff must quickly establish new combinations across the team.
For supporters following the latest Ghana football developments, MyGHPages sports and lifestyle coverage provides additional national sports stories. The Ghana News Agency also provides coverage of Ghana’s sporting activities and Black Stars developments.
The Black Stars withdrawals have undoubtedly changed Queiroz’s original plans, but the additional call-ups provide an opportunity for other players to step forward. Afena-Gyan now has the chance to demonstrate what he can contribute during an important period for Ghana.
As the AFCON 2027 qualifiers get underway, attention will be on how the reshaped squad performs against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia. For Afena-Gyan, the latest call-up represents another opportunity to establish himself as an option for Ghana’s future international campaigns.
3. Mohammed Fuseini Adds Pace to Ghana’s Attack
Mohammed Fuseini has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz responds to the growing number of player withdrawals ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The Derby County forward is one of nine players called into the squad after medical uncertainties affected members of the original selection.
Fuseini’s inclusion gives Ghana another attacking option at a time when the national team has had to make several changes. The Black Stars withdrawals involving Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew and other players have reduced the number of established options available to Queiroz, creating an opportunity for new players to step forward.
Fuseini brings an attacking profile that can give Ghana more variety in the final third. His pace and movement can provide another option for the coaching staff when looking to stretch opposition defences or change the rhythm of a match. His inclusion also increases competition among the forwards competing for playing time during the international window.
The timing of his call-up is particularly important because Ghana faces a demanding schedule. The Black Stars are set to travel to Bouaké to face Côte d’Ivoire on September 24 before returning home to play The Gambia in Accra on September 29. Ghana will then face Morocco in an international friendly on October 4.
With several players unavailable, Queiroz needs to build an attacking unit that can adapt quickly. Fuseini will have to understand the coach’s tactical instructions in a short period, while also competing with other newly added forwards such as Brandon Thomas-Asante, Benjamin Tetteh and Felix Afena-Gyan.
The Ghana Football Association confirmed Fuseini as one of the nine additional players brought into the squad. The official Ghana Football Association squad announcement provides details of the changes made after the medical uncertainties.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have therefore opened the door for Fuseini to become more involved with the senior national team. A strong showing during the current international window could help him remain in con.
tention for future Ghana selections, although his immediate focus will be on adapting to the squad and contributing whenever he is called upon.
Fuseini’s addition also highlights the importance of squad depth during an international campaign. Ghana cannot rely on a small group of players throughout a long qualifying schedule. Injuries, workload and other fitness concerns can quickly change the composition of a national team, making players such as Fuseini increasingly important.
The forward will also have the opportunity to train alongside more experienced Ghana internationals. Working within the Black Stars environment can help him understand the demands of international football while allowing the coaching staff to assess his qualities against other players competing for attacking positions.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have undoubtedly changed the original plans for the AFCON qualifiers, but they have also created opportunities for players who might otherwise have had to wait for another international window. Fuseini is now one of those players with an opportunity to make an impression.
For supporters following Ghana football, MyGHPages sports and lifestyle coverage provides additional national sports stories, while Derby County offers official club information and updates about Fuseini.
Ghana’s attacking options will be closely watched when the Black Stars begin their AFCON 2027 qualification campaign. The absence of established players means the new additions must be ready to contribute, and Fuseini now has the opportunity to show that he can handle the demands of senior international football.
Ultimately, Mohammed Fuseini’s call-up gives Carlos Queiroz another option in attack and adds greater depth to the reshaped Black Stars squad. As Ghana prepares for Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, the forward will be looking to make the most of his latest opportunity with the national team.
4. Benjamin Tetteh Strengthens Ghana’s Forward Options

Benjamin Tetteh has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz responds to the growing number of player withdrawals ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The striker is one of nine players called into the squad after medical uncertainties affected several members of the original team.
Tetteh’s inclusion gives Ghana another attacking option at a time when the Black Stars have had to make significant changes to their squad. The Black Stars’ withdrawals involving key players have reduced the number of established options available to Queiroz, particularly in the forward positions.
The striker joins Brandon Thomas-Asante, Mohammed Fuseini and Felix Afena-Gyan as part of the additional attacking options brought into the squad. The Ghana Football Association confirmed the nine additions as the coaching staff responded to the changing player-availability situation. The official GFA squad update provides details of the players added.
Tetteh’s call-up comes at an important stage of Ghana’s international campaign. The Black Stars are preparing to face Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24 before hosting The Gambia in Accra on September 29. Ghana will then play Morocco in an international friendly on October 4.
The busy schedule means Queiroz needs enough depth in attack to manage his squad. Having several forwards available gives the coach more flexibility when selecting his starting lineup and making changes during matches.
The Black Stars withdrawals have also created opportunities for players who were not originally expected to play such prominent roles. Tetteh now has the chance to demonstrate what he can offer at the senior international level and compete for a place in future Ghana squads.
His inclusion does not necessarily mean that he will start the upcoming fixtures. The coaching staff will assess his training performances, fitness and tactical suitability before deciding how much involvement he will have. However, simply being part of the squad gives him an opportunity to work within Queiroz’s system and compete alongside other Ghana internationals.
Tetteh’s presence could also provide a different option in the attacking third. Depending on the match situation, the coaching staff may require a forward who can offer a physical presence, hold up the ball or provide another target inside the penalty area.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have made squad versatility particularly important. With several established players unavailable, Ghana needs different types of players who can respond to different opponents and match situations.
The additional call-ups also increase competition within the Ghana squad. Tetteh will be competing with Thomas-Asante, Fuseini, Afena-Gyan and the other available forwards for opportunities. That competition could give Queiroz more choices as he decides how to approach the opening AFCON qualifiers.
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Tetteh’s call-up is therefore another example of how the Black Stars withdrawals have changed Ghana’s squad plans. Players who may have been further down the selection order now have an opportunity to contribute during an important international window.
For Ghana, the priority is to build a competitive team from the players who are fit and available. The absence of several established names has made the task more complicated, but the additional players give Queiroz greater depth across the squad.
As the AFCON 2027 qualifiers begin, Tetteh will be hoping to make the most of his opportunity. His performances in training and, if selected, during the matches could influence his prospects of remaining part of the Black Stars setup.
The current squad changes have created uncertainty around Ghana’s original plans, but they have also opened the door for players such as Benjamin Tetteh. His inclusion gives the Black Stars another attacking option as Ghana prepares for two important qualifying fixtures and the subsequent friendly against Morocco.
5. Jonas Adjetey Bolsters Ghana’s Defensive Options
Jonas Adjetey has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz responds to the growing number of player withdrawals ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The defender is one of nine players called into the squad after medical uncertainties affected several members of the original selection.
Adjetey’s inclusion is particularly important because Ghana has experienced several changes in defence during the current international window. The Black Stars’ withdrawals have affected different areas of the squad, leaving Queiroz with the task of building a defensive unit from the players who are fit and available.
The defender joins Alidu Seidu, Ebenezer Annan and Rockson Yeboah as part of the additional defensive options brought into the squad. The Ghana Football Association confirmed the changes as the coaching staff responded to the availability concerns surrounding the original team. The Ghana Football Association’s official squad update provides the full list of players added.
Adjetey’s call-up comes at an important moment for Ghana. The Black Stars are preparing for an away AFCON qualifier against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24, followed by a home match against The Gambia in Accra on September 29. Ghana will then face Morocco in an international friendly on October 4.
The short gap between the competitive fixtures means defensive organisation will be extremely important. Queiroz will have limited time to establish new partnerships, making training sessions and communication between the defenders particularly important.
The Black Stars withdrawals have also created an opportunity for Adjetey to become more involved with the senior national team. Being included in the squad gives him the chance to work within Queiroz’s system and compete with other defenders for playing time.
His addition does not automatically mean that he will start the upcoming matches. The coaching staff will assess the available defenders based on fitness, tactical requirements and training performances before deciding on the starting lineup.
For Ghana, having additional defensive depth can be valuable throughout the international window. Injuries, suspensions and fatigue can affect a team quickly, especially when competitive matches are played only a few days apart. Players such as Adjetey can therefore provide important alternatives when changes are required.
The Black Stars withdrawals have changed the original squad balance, but the new call-ups have helped reduce the pressure created by the absences. Adjetey now has an opportunity to demonstrate that he can contribute to Ghana’s senior national team during a demanding period.
His presence also gives Queiroz more tactical flexibility. Depending on the opponent and formation, the coach can consider different defensive combinations and adjust his approach during matches.
The additional defenders could also increase competition for places. Adjetey will be competing alongside other players who want to establish themselves within the Black Stars setup. Strong performances during the international window could help players secure further opportunities in future Ghana squads.
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Adjetey’s inclusion is another example of how the Black Stars withdrawals have opened opportunities for other Ghanaian players. Rather than simply replacing unavailable names, the additional call-ups allow Queiroz to assess more players and potentially increase the depth of his national-team options.
The defender will now be looking to make the most of his opportunity during the current international window. Training alongside experienced Black Stars players can provide valuable exposure, while competitive fixtures could give him the chance to demonstrate his ability at the senior international level.
Ghana’s defensive performance will be closely watched when the team begins its AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign. Against Côte d’Ivoire, particularly away from home, maintaining defensive discipline and organisation will be an important part of the team’s approach.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have forced Queiroz to make several changes, but the arrival of players such as Jonas Adjetey gives the coach additional choices. His inclusion could prove useful as Ghana attempts to navigate the opening qualifiers with a reshaped squad.
For Adjetey, this is an opportunity to show that he can compete at the highest level of Ghanaian international football. His immediate focus will be on adapting to the squad, understanding Queiroz’s tactical instructions and being ready whenever the coaching staff calls on him.
6. Alidu Seidu Provides Another Defensive Option
Alidu Seidu has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz responds to the growing number of player withdrawals ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The defender is one of nine players brought into the squad after medical uncertainties affected several members of the original selection.
Seidu’s inclusion gives Ghana another experienced option in defence at a time when the Black Stars have had to make several changes to their squad. The Black Stars’ withdrawals have affected different areas of the team, forcing Queiroz to reassess his original plans before the opening AFCON qualifying fixtures.
The Ghana Football Association confirmed Seidu among the additional players brought into the squad. He joins Jonas Adjetey, Ebenezer Annan and Rockson Yeboah as defensive reinforcements. The official Ghana Football Association squad announcement provides details of the changes.
Seidu’s versatility could be useful to Queiroz as the coach considers different defensive combinations. Having a player capable of contributing in more than one defensive role can give a national-team coach greater flexibility, particularly when several players are unavailable.
The timing of his inclusion is also important. Ghana’s first AFCON qualifier is against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24, followed by a home fixture against The Gambia in Accra on September 29. The Black Stars will then face Morocco in an international friendly on October 4.
The demanding schedule means Ghana needs enough defensive depth to cope with different opponents and match situations. Seidu’s presence gives Queiroz another option when selecting his starting lineup or making tactical changes during a game.
The Black Stars withdrawals have created opportunities for several players who were not originally expected to have such prominent roles during the international window. Seidu now has an opportunity to demonstrate his value and compete for further involvement with the senior national team.
His inclusion does not automatically guarantee a starting position. The coaching staff will assess the defender during training and consider factors such as fitness, tactical requirements and the characteristics of each opponent before making selection decisions.
Seidu also brings previous international experience to the group. That experience can be useful in a squad that has undergone significant changes in a short period. Players familiar with international football can help new members adapt to the pace and demands of the national-team environment.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have also highlighted the importance of maintaining squad depth. Ghana cannot rely solely on its first-choice players throughout a long international campaign. Injuries and fitness concerns can quickly alter a squad, making reliable replacements essential.
The defender’s call-up therefore provides Queiroz with additional flexibility while giving Seidu another opportunity to establish himself within the Black Stars setup. A strong showing during the current international window could increase his chances of remaining involved in future Ghana squads.
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Ghana’s defensive organisation will be closely watched when the team begins its AFCON 2027 qualification campaign. The away match against Côte d’Ivoire presents an early test for a reshaped squad, particularly with several established players unavailable.
Seidu’s presence gives Queiroz another option as he looks to build a balanced team from the players currently available. The Black Stars’ withdrawals may have disrupted the original plans, but they have also created opportunities for players to demonstrate that they can contribute at an international level.
For Alidu Seidu, the immediate task is to adapt quickly, compete for his place and be ready whenever the coaching staff calls upon him. His experience and versatility could become useful as Ghana navigates the opening fixtures of its AFCON qualifying campaign.
7. Ebenezer Annan Joins the Black Stars Squad
Ebenezer Annan has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz responds to the growing number of player withdrawals ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The defender is one of nine players brought into the squad after medical uncertainties affected several members of the original selection.
Annan’s inclusion gives Ghana another option in defence at a time when the national team has had to make significant changes. The Black Stars’ withdrawals have affected both defensive and attacking areas, forcing Queiroz to reassess his squad and consider players who were not initially part of his plans for the international window.
The Ghana Football Association confirmed Annan among the additional players called into the squad. He joins Jonas Adjetey, Alidu Seidu and Rockson Yeboah as part of the defensive reinforcements. The Ghana Football Association’s official squad announcement provides the details of the nine additions.
Annan’s call-up comes at a demanding stage of Ghana’s international schedule. The Black Stars are preparing to face Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24 before returning home to play The Gambia in Accra on September 29. Ghana will then face Morocco in an international friendly on October 4.
With the fixtures coming close together, defensive depth will be important. Queiroz needs players who can adapt quickly to his tactical instructions and work effectively with teammates who may also be new to the starting lineup.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have created an opportunity for Annan to become more involved with the senior national team. His inclusion gives him the chance to train with the squad, compete for playing time and demonstrate what he can contribute at international level.
His call-up does not automatically mean that he will start the upcoming matches. The coaching staff will assess his fitness, training performances and suitability for the tactical approach required against each opponent.
Annan’s addition also increases competition within Ghana’s defensive group. Competition for places can be important during an international window because it gives the coaching staff several options when deciding how to approach different opponents.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have made squad flexibility particularly important for Ghana. Injuries and fitness concerns have changed the original selection, meaning players who were initially outside the squad now have an opportunity to play a more important role.
For Annan, the current international window represents an opportunity to strengthen his position within the Black Stars setup. A strong performance in training or during a match could increase his chances of being considered for future international assignments.
The defender will also benefit from working alongside more experienced Ghana internationals. Training within the national-team environment can help him understand the demands of international football and adapt to the coaching staff’s tactical expectations.
Ghana’s defensive organisation will be tested from the opening match against Côte d’Ivoire. Playing away from home means the Black Stars will need concentration and communication throughout the game, particularly against a strong opponent.
The additional defensive players give Queiroz more choices as he prepares his team. Annan, Jonas Adjetey, Alidu Seidu and Rockson Yeboah can all provide alternatives as the coach considers the best combination for the opening AFCON qualifier.
For supporters following Ghana football, MyGHPages sports and lifestyle coverage provides additional national sports stories. Official African football information and AFCON competition updates can also be found through the Confederation of African Football.
The Black Stars withdrawals have undoubtedly changed Ghana’s original squad plans, but the additional call-ups have provided opportunities for players such as Annan. The defender now has the chance to show that he can contribute to the national team when called upon.
As Ghana begins its AFCON 2027 qualification campaign, attention will turn to how effectively the reshaped squad performs. Annan’s inclusion adds another defensive option and gives Queiroz greater flexibility as he prepares for Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia.
For Ebenezer Annan, the immediate goal will be to settle into the squad, compete for his place and make the most of the opportunity created by the latest changes to the Black Stars team.
8. Rockson Yeboah Gives Ghana More Defensive Depth

Rockson Yeboah has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz continues to adjust his team following a series of player withdrawals ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The defender is one of nine players called up after medical concerns affected members of the original squad.
Yeboah’s addition gives Ghana another defensive option as the Black Stars prepare for a demanding international schedule. The Black Stars withdrawals have forced the coaching staff to make several changes, particularly in defence, where additional depth is now important for the team’s preparations.
The Ghana Football Association officially included Yeboah among the nine players added to the squad. He joins Jonas Adjetey, Alidu Seidu and Ebenezer Annan as defensive options brought into the group. The Ghana Football Association’s official squad update confirms the changes made by the technical team.
Yeboah’s call-up comes at an important moment for Ghana. The Black Stars are scheduled to play Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24, followed by a home AFCON qualifier against The Gambia in Accra on September 29. Ghana will then face Morocco in an international friendly on October 4.
The tight schedule means Queiroz will need enough players to maintain competition and depth throughout the international window. Having additional defenders available gives the coach more flexibility when deciding his starting lineup and making changes during matches.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have opened the door for Yeboah to demonstrate his ability at the senior international level. Although his inclusion does not guarantee playing time, he now has the opportunity to train with the national team and compete for a place within the squad.
Defensive consistency will be particularly important in Ghana’s opening qualifier. Playing Côte d’Ivoire away from home will require concentration, organisation and effective communication across the backline.
Yeboah’s presence could therefore become valuable if Queiroz needs to rotate his defenders or make tactical changes. International football can be physically demanding, especially when several matches are scheduled within a short period.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have also shown why squad depth is important during an international campaign. A team may begin preparations with one group of players but have to make significant changes when injuries or fitness concerns arise.
For Yeboah, this situation provides an opportunity to make an impression. Training alongside established Black Stars players can also help him gain experience in the national-team environment and understand the demands of international competition.
The defender will have to compete with other players for opportunities, but healthy competition can give Queiroz several alternatives when selecting his defensive setup. The coach can assess each player during training before deciding who is best suited to each fixture.
Ghana’s defensive options now include a mixture of established internationals and players receiving increased opportunities because of the recent squad changes. This gives the technical team greater flexibility as preparations continue.
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The Black Stars withdrawals have changed the composition of Ghana’s original squad, but they have also created opportunities for players such as Yeboah. His inclusion means the defender can now compete for recognition while helping the national team maintain its defensive depth.
As Ghana begins its AFCON 2027 qualification campaign, the performance of the reshaped squad will attract considerable attention. Every player called into the group will have an opportunity to contribute, whether as a starter, substitute or training option.
For Rockson Yeboah, the immediate task will be to settle into the squad, understand Queiroz’s tactical requirements and remain ready for selection. His addition gives Ghana another defensive option at a time when the team is adapting to several important absences.
The upcoming fixtures against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia will provide an early test of how effectively the reshaped Black Stars squad can adapt. Yeboah’s inclusion adds further depth as Ghana begins its latest AFCON qualification campaign.
9. Rahim Ibrahim Adds Another Midfield Option
Rahim Ibrahim has been added to Ghana’s Black Stars squad as Carlos Queiroz continues to reshape his team following a series of player withdrawals ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The midfielder is one of nine players called up to strengthen the squad after medical and availability concerns affected the original selection. (Ghana Football Association)
Ibrahim’s inclusion gives Ghana another option in midfield at a time when the coaching staff has had to make several changes. The Black Stars’ withdrawals have affected different areas of the team, making squad depth especially important as Ghana prepares for a demanding international window.
The Ghana Football Association officially confirmed Ibrahim among the additional players brought into the squad. He joins Jonas Adjetey, Alidu Seidu, Ebenezer Annan and Rockson Yeboah, as well as the newly added attacking options, in a reshaped group preparing for the upcoming fixtures. The Ghana Football Association squad update lists Ibrahim as the additional midfielder. (Ghana Football Association)
The timing of his call-up is significant because Ghana has important matches coming up in quick succession. The Black Stars are scheduled to face Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24 before hosting The Gambia in Accra on September 29. Ghana will then play Morocco in an international friendly in Tangier on October 4. (Ghana News Agency)
With several players unavailable, Queiroz needs different combinations in midfield and across the team. Ibrahim’s arrival gives the coach another player to assess during training and potentially another option when selecting his midfield structure.
The Black Stars withdrawals have created opportunities for players who were not part of the original squad. For Ibrahim, the current situation provides an important chance to show what he can contribute at a senior international level.
His inclusion does not necessarily mean that he will start any of the upcoming matches. Queiroz will have to consider the fitness of his players, the tactical demands of each opponent and the combinations that work best during training.
Midfield will be particularly important when Ghana faces Côte d’Ivoire away from home. The Black Stars will need players capable of helping the team maintain possession, compete for the ball and support both the defence and attack.
Ibrahim can therefore provide another option as Queiroz works on his tactical plans. The coach has acknowledged that repeated changes to the squad have made it difficult to build continuity, while stressing the importance of developing a stable core of players. (Ghana News Agency)
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have also demonstrated how quickly a national-team squad can change before a major international assignment. Players who were not originally expected to feature can suddenly find themselves competing for important roles.
For Ibrahim, the challenge will be to adapt quickly to the environment, understand the coach’s instructions and compete with the other midfielders in the squad. His ability to settle quickly could be important given the limited preparation time before Ghana’s opening qualifier.
Fans following Ghana football can find more stories through MyGHPages lifestyle and sports coverage. For official national sports reporting, Ghana News Agency is also covering the Black Stars’ preparations and the latest squad developments.
The Black Stars’ withdrawals have changed the balance of Ghana’s squad, but they have also opened opportunities for emerging players and additional squad members. Ibrahim is now part of a group that must quickly adapt to Queiroz’s plans before the competitive fixtures begin.
The midfielder’s involvement could become particularly useful if Ghana needs fresh legs or a different tactical approach during the qualifying campaign. International matches can require changes depending on the scoreline, opponent and physical demands of the game.
As the Black Stars prepare for Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia, Ibrahim will have the opportunity to demonstrate that he can operate at the required international level. His call-up also increases competition within Ghana’s midfield and gives Queiroz another option when making his final selection.
The current squad situation means every available player could have an important role. The Black Stars’ withdrawals have forced Ghana to adjust its plans, but the additional call-ups have ensured that the coaching staff has more players to work with.
For Rahim Ibrahim, the immediate objective will be to make the most of the opportunity, compete for playing time and help Ghana during its opening AFCON 2027 qualification fixtures.




