Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has included Mohammed Kudus in the provisional squad submitted to FIFA ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite ongoing concerns over the midfielder’s fitness.
The 73-year-old coach has forwarded the mandatory provisional squad to world football’s governing body, with the Ghana Football Association expected to announce the final 26-man squad in the coming days.
Kudus’ inclusion comes as the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder continues his recovery from a hamstring injury that ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
The 25-year-old had initially been expected to return in April but suffered a setback during rehabilitation. After initially opting against surgery, Kudus later underwent a successful operation on the advice of medical specialists and is now focused on regaining full fitness.
Reports indicate Queiroz, who is expected to name his final squad on June 1, is considering retaining the influential midfielder in Ghana’s World Cup plans amid growing optimism over his recovery.
There is hope Kudus could return in time for Ghana’s final Group L fixture against Croatia, while a potential knockout-stage qualification could further boost his chances of featuring at the tournament.
If selected, the 2026 World Cup would mark Kudus’ second appearance on football’s biggest stage following his impressive performances at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
Kudus was Ghana’s standout player in that campaign, scoring twice in the Black Stars’ dramatic 3-2 victory over South Korea — their only win before exiting at the group stage.
Since making his senior debut in 2019, Kudus has scored 13 goals in 46 appearances and has established himself as one of Ghana’s most influential players.
The four-time African champions are preparing for their fifth World Cup appearance at the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Ghana will begin their Group L campaign against Panama at BMO Field in Toronto on June 17 before taking on England in Boston on June 23. The Black Stars will conclude the group stage against Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on June 27.
As part of preparations for the tournament, Ghana will play international friendlies against Mexico on May 22 and Wales on June 2.
