Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has pushed back against comparisons between the current Black Stars midfield and those of previous eras, arguing that modern football has evolved in ways that make such debates less meaningful.
His remarks come amid renewed scrutiny of Ghana’s midfield options ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the team’s balance in the centre of the pitch has once again come under the spotlight.
Ahead of the 23rd edition of the world’s biggest football tournament, Ghana’s midfield setup has divided opinion, with some observers calling for continued reliance on experienced figures such as Thomas Partey.
However, the midfielder’s recent form and off-field issues have also fuelled debate over his long-term role in the squad.
Speaking on Sporty FM, Agyemang-Badu said the game has changed significantly, stressing that most national teams are now grappling with similar challenges across different positions.
“The mentality of players has changed, the football has changed. Football has become a bit scientific,” he said.
“If I summarise it, I think it’s a generational change, and many teams have dropped in quality. If they don’t lose their midfield, they lose their defense or goalkeeping department or their strike force,” Agyemang-Badu added.
Meanwhile, Ghana, a four-time African champions, have been housed in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama at BMO Field on June 17 before facing England at Gillette Stadium on June 23. Their final group-stage fixture will be against Croatia on June 27.
