Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz has named a 23-man squad for the Black Stars’ pre-World Cup international friendly against Mexico, scheduled for Friday, May 22, 2026 — a crucial preparatory outing as the team builds momentum ahead of the global showpiece later this year.
The squad blends experienced players drawn from European leagues with promising domestic talent, reflecting Queiroz’s dual mandate of fine-tuning his senior setup while also casting an eye on the next generation.
A contingent of U-23 players earmarked for Ghana’s upcoming Olympic Games qualifiers have also been included, giving the call-up added significance beyond the Mexico fixture itself.
Among the most anticipated returnees is Majeed Ashimeru, who comes back into the fold after a prolonged absence caused by a muscle injury that disrupted his rhythm at both club and international level. His inclusion will be welcomed by Black Stars supporters eager to see the dynamic midfielder back in action.
Felix Afena-Gyan also earns a recall after an extended international absence — his last appearance for Ghana came in May last year, when he featured against Trinidad and Tobago in the Unity Cup in London.
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The combative forward will be looking to reassert himself in Queiroz’s plans with a strong showing against El Tri.
Joining them from the European club circuit are Abdul Aziz Issah of Barcelona B, Ebenezer Annan of French side AS Saint-Étienne, Ibrahim Osman of Birmingham City, and Paul Reverson of Ajax FC — a group of young, technically gifted players who represent the exciting new wave of Ghanaian talent developing across the continent.
Home-Based Players Feature Prominently:
The local contingent is led by Salim Adams, the influential midfielder who has been instrumental in Medeama SC’s charge at the top of the Ghana Premier League table. His inclusion signals Queiroz’s continued commitment to rewarding consistent domestic performers with international opportunities.
Also called up from the local league are Ebenezer Abban of Heart of Lions, Ebenezer Adade of Dreams FC, and Nations FC captain Razak Simpson — players who have caught the coaching staff’s attention through their performances in the domestic competition.
Ghana’s trip to Mexico on May 22 represents a significant test of the squad’s readiness, with Queiroz expected to use the fixture to assess combinations, sharpen tactical patterns, and finalise his thinking ahead of what promises to be a historic World Cup campaign for the Black Stars.