Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has called on the Ghana Football Association and Black Stars coach Otto Addo to consider foreign-born Ghanaian players for selection ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Vanderpuye, a player’s place of birth should not determine their eligibility to represent Ghana if they possess the quality, commitment, and passion to strengthen the national team.
With Ghana booking their ticket to next year’s World Cup, debate has intensified over whether the technical team should invite players of Ghanaian descent born abroad — including Eddie Nketiah, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and others — who were not part of the qualification campaign.
While some critics believe these players lack the emotional connection to Ghana or should not replace those who earned qualification, Vanderpuye insists such arguments are misplaced.
Speaking to Citi TV, he argued that national identity extends beyond birthplace, stressing that Ghana should embrace every capable player with Ghanaian roots.
“Even Jordan and Dede, though their father played for Ghana, were not born here. They were born outside the country. They had the opportunity, and they came to play for us. Anthony Baffoe — it was the same,” Vanderpuye said.
“So what is it? The accident of birth should not prevent someone from enjoying and portraying their Ghanaianness.”
The former Sports Minister’s comments add weight to the growing calls for Ghana to adopt a merit-based and inclusive approach in squad selection as preparations for the 2026 World Cup intensify.