Black Stars can qualify for 2026 World Cup if captaincy issue is addressed – Kwasi Appiah

With Thomas Partey having turned down a permanent leadership role, Jordan Ayew has been confirmed as the team’s skipper, with Alexander Djiku serving as his deputy.

Former Ghana captain and coach Kwesi Appiah has thrown his weight behind the Black Stars’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes, citing the importance of resolving the ongoing captaincy conundrum.

The team’s leadership has been a subject of debate, with Andre Ayew and Thomas Partey’s absence sparking controversy over who should wear the armband.

In recent matches, Mohammed Kudus and Jordan Ayew have both been entrusted with the captain’s role, but the constant switching has drawn criticism from fans, ex-players, and pundits.

During the October international window, Mohammed Kudus took the reins as captain in Ghana’s AFCON qualifying doubleheader against Sudan, filling in for the absent Thomas Partey and Andre Ayew.

However, in the November internationals, Jordan Ayew was handed the captain’s armband for Ghana’s final group stage matches against Angola and Niger.

Appiah, now at the helm of Sudan, emphasized the need for unity within the squad ahead of this month’s crucial fixtures.

“I am hoping that what I have heard is true, that they’re trying to sort out the captaincy issue. If there are other issues, I hope they resolve them, but you know I’m not with the team, so it’s not everything that I know.”

“If they’re able to sort the captaincy issue, then it’s okay, because the players we have are quality, and then we make sure there’s no division in the team. Without unity, we cannot achieve anything, so I hope and pray that Ghana will qualify for the World Cup” (Via Luv FM).