Black Stars assistant coach John Paintsil has stressed the importance of having Ghana’s key players fully fit as preparations ramp up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With less than four months to the tournament, concerns persist over the fitness of several influential players. Midfielder Mohammed Kudus remains sidelined with an injury, while Francis Abu and defender Mohammed Salisu are also expected to miss the competition due to various ailments. However, Abdul Mumin has completed his recovery from a long-term setback.
Head coach Otto Addo is scheduled to announce his final squad on June 1, with anticipation building among supporters. Paintsil believes the team’s ambitions hinge largely on the physical readiness of its core players.
“When it comes to the World Cup, Ghana is experienced. We have been to the round of 16 in 2006 and the quarter-finals in 2010,” he told 3Sports.
“Coming into this World Cup, expectations are very high. I want all our players to be fit so they’ll be ready for the call-up,” added Paintsil, who represented Ghana at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
Drawn in Group L, Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, face England six days later, and conclude group-stage fixtures against Croatia on June 27.
As part of their build-up, the Black Stars are scheduled to regroup in March for friendly matches against Austria and Germany, followed by a final test against Mexico in May.
