The omission of Union Berlin left-back Derrick Köhn from Ghana’s provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has triggered sharp criticism from his family, with his uncle accusing decision-makers at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) of unfair treatment and external influence.
Eric Akwasi Agyei, Köhn’s uncle, questioned the rationale behind the defender’s exclusion, insisting the 27-year-old has been among the standout performers in the national team setup in recent outings.
Köhn, who has been pushing for a place in the World Cup squad, was not included in the latest 28-man list.
Speaking in an interview with Peace FM, Agyei suggested the decision went beyond technical considerations and warned that Ghana’s prospects at the tournament could be affected by what he described as unfair practices.
“You think Carlos (Queiroz), who recently took over as head coach of the Black Stars, is the one taking this set of players to the World Cup?” he said.
“Let’s speak the truth. If someone is responsible for Derrick Köhn’s omission, then it won’t end well for that person.
“These shenanigans need to stop; otherwise, it will continue with no end in sight, and Ghana won’t move forward. This World Cup, Ghana won’t be successful, and it’s not because my nephew wasn’t selected, but because of corruption,” he added.
While Köhn missed out, Baba Rahman—who has been absent from the national team for nearly four years—was included and is in contention for a place in the final squad, which will be announced on June 1 by head coach Carlos Queiroz.
The Ghana national football team are currently in camp in Cardiff as they step up preparations for their pre-World Cup friendly against Wales national football team on June 2.
Ghana, set for their fifth appearance at the global tournament, have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama national football team, England national football team and Croatia national football team.
The four-time African champions will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before facing England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium and Croatia on June 27 at Lincoln Financial Field.
The Black Stars will be aiming to improve on recent World Cup performances, having exited at the group stage in both 2014 and 2022, as they seek a long-awaited return to the knockout stages.
