Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has finally cleared up the uncertainty surrounding Alexander Djiku, confirming that the Ghana defender will miss the 2026 World Cup because of an injury and that the Black Stars have already adjusted their plans accordingly.
Queiroz delivered the update following Ghana’s latest training session in Cardiff, making it clear that a decision had been taken and that Djiku’s position in the squad had already been filled by another player.
“We had to make a decision and replace Alexander Djiku. It doesn’t matter who I called up - Djiku has already been replaced,” the Portuguese coach stated.
While he avoided naming the player who came in for Djiku, Queiroz indicated that the defensive group currently in camp remains unchanged, adding that the center-backs present at training in Cardiff are the ones heading to the tournament. “We’re working with the same group of central defenders in camp. The names you know are the ones you saw on the pitch today, so we’re ready to leave,” he said.
Djiku’s absence is a significant setback for Ghana since he was expected to provide experience and leadership at the back during the World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Reports suggest that Pafos FC defender Derrick Luckassen has been drafted into the squad to take over the vacant spot left by Djiku’s withdrawal.
Ghana remain in Wales at the moment, where they are scheduled to play an international friendly against Wales on Tuesday before traveling to North America for the World Cup.
The Black Stars have been placed in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia, and they will start their World Cup campaign with a match against Panama in Toronto on June 17.
