Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has made a powerful statement that’s echoing across the football landscape, commitment and respect for the national team will outweigh reputation or talent when it comes to World Cup selection.
In a firm and unapologetic declaration, Okraku stated that players who have previously turned down national invitations or shown disrespect to the Black Stars will not be considered for future call-ups, regardless of their current form or the coach’s opinion.
“If a player has refused us in the past or disrespected us in the past, I won’t open the door for that player to be part of the squad for the World Cup. I don’t care what the coach thinks,”-Kurt Okraku, GFA President
The GFA boss’ remarks underline his determination to rebuild the spirit of loyalty, discipline, and patriotism within the Ghana national team setup. According to Okraku, the Black Stars must be represented by players who value the nation above personal interest.
While some football enthusiasts have applauded his stance as a bold step toward restoring dignity and unity in the team, others believe the focus should remain solely on performance and results. Still, Okraku’s message is unmistakably clear, wearing the national jersey is an honour that must be earned through respect and commitment.
As Ghana intensifies preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Okraku’s tough talk sets the tone for a new era, one where national pride comes before ego and discipline stands above fame.
Under his leadership, the Black Stars appear to be charting a path toward a future where every player who steps onto the pitch does so with heart, humility, and the hunger to make Ghana proud.