Ghana have been handed a major setback ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with defender Alexander Djiku expected to miss out on the final squad due to an ongoing injury concern.
Djiku, who was named in coach Carlos Queiroz’s 28-man provisional squad, arrived in camp in Cardiff already carrying a knock picked up after being withdrawn from Spartak Moscow’s Russian Cup final victory over FC Krasnodar, a match decided on penalties.
Although he has remained with the squad since last week, the experienced centre-back has not taken part in full training sessions, casting serious doubt over his chances of making the final 26-man squad as the deadline approaches.
Queiroz is expected to confirm his final World Cup squad on June 1, with Djiku now widely tipped to be among the players to miss out.
A key figure in Ghana’s defence since his debut in 2020, Djiku has earned 38 international caps and scored four goals. He also featured at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, bringing valuable experience to the team.
His potential absence leaves a significant gap in Ghana’s defensive options, with no official replacement yet announced.
Following the squad announcement, the Black Stars will continue their preparations in Wales, where they face Wales at Cardiff City Stadium on June 2, before a final warm-up match against Jamaica on June 10.
Ghana will be making their fifth World Cup appearance in North America, drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, before taking on England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium and concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27.
Ghana will be targeting a place in the knockout stage for the first time since their historic quarter-final run in 2010.
