Gremio forward Francis Amuzu has dismissed suggestions that his renewed interest in representing Ghana is merely an attempt to feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that his commitment to the Black Stars is genuine and long-standing.
The 26-year-old, who was born in Ghana but raised in Belgium, previously declined a national team call-up in 2022. However, following Ghana’s successful qualification for the World Cup, Amuzu has officially expressed his readiness to play for the four-time African champions — a decision that has sparked widespread debate among fans and pundits.
Many have questioned the timing of his announcement, suggesting that Amuzu’s motivation may be driven by the lure of appearing on football’s biggest stage rather than genuine patriotism.
But in an interview with Asempa FM, the former Anderlecht winger refuted those claims, stating that his passion for Ghana goes beyond the upcoming tournament.
“I was born in Ghana, so I’m happy that they qualified for the World Cup. It’s a wonderful tournament to play in,” he said. “If it’s for the World Cup, it will be nice. If it’s after the World Cup, it’s also nice — I will be happy. It’s a dream for me to play for the national team Ghana.”
Amuzu further explained that his decision to switch nationality had been in motion for some time, revealing that the necessary documentation process had already been completed.
“They told me to make my passport. I did everything, and I’m just waiting for a call-up. I know it’s not easy — there are a lot of good players. I have to perform to earn it,” he noted.
The winger, who represented Belgium at U-19 and U-21 levels, added that his friendship with several Ghanaian players — particularly Majeed Ashimeru, whom he played alongside at Anderlecht — influenced his desire to represent Ghana.
“I played with Majeed Ashimeru for three or four years. I went with him to Ghana, and we enjoyed our time there. I felt connected — I felt Ghana — so I said, yes, I want to play for Ghana.”
Amuzu’s decision follows a growing trend of foreign-born players committing to Ghana, as the Black Stars prepare for a major rebuild ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America.
His potential inclusion would add depth and experience to Otto Addo’s attacking options as Ghana looks to assemble a balanced squad capable of competing on the global stage.
