Ghana coach Otto Addo on Friday named a 25-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) double-header against Sudan.
One player whose omission from Otto Addo's squad has sparked considerable discussion is IF Elfsborg man Michael Baidoo.
Addo isn't short of attacking options, but Baidoo has hit the best form of his career this season under Oscar Hiljemar operating as an attacking midfielder or as a centre-forward.
He has netted 10 goals and provided four assists in 24 Allsvenskan appearances. Additionally, he scored once in two matches during the Europa League campaign for the Swedish club.
The versatile 25-year-old has always been blessed with natural talent. Playing for the Swedish head coach has inspired him to add an end-product to his game, which had been the missing ingredient.
The former Vision FC player turned in some strong performances at the beginning of the season while his side were misfiring and has continued to be on song as his teammates have followed his lead to see an upturn in form.
He is scoring and creating goals while also helping dictate play in matches, something which Ghana are crying out for. The Ghana boss loves to big-up the unity and harmony within the group of Black Stars players he has repeatedly called upon since he assumed office, but now is not the time for sentiments. It is the time for him to rely on his greatest arsenals as he looks to restore Ghana to international glory.
Combining creative flair with the level of instinctive forward play of a striker, he's able to find space anywhere on the pitch. Dynamism and intelligent movement both on and off the ball make him impossible to read, but his influence in the final third stretches beyond setting up his teammates.
Constantly craving possession, technically gifted with both feet and willing to shoot whenever the opportunity arises - he's been a revelation in Sweden. And he's only been there for over a year. Baidoo’s ingenuity with a ball at his feet is what should secure him a place at the AFCON without any doubt.
Addo must select players who can conjure up moments of magic from nothing. Someone who can impose themselves on the opposition and not be afraid to take risks on the ball while oozing composure. Michael Baidoo is your man in that regard.
Some will try to argue that he lacks experience on this stage as he has only represented Ghana at the juvenile level. But rest assured Baidoo is primed and ready to play a more glamorous role for his country on the biggest stage.
In international football, player profiles are important and there's a need to have different options at your disposal. Baidoo is the all-round midfielder capable of scoring goals, providing assists, dropping deep and running in behind.
In response to his omission, Addo noted, "Michael Baidoo is on our radar and we are in touch with him. He's an excellent striker, and we will see what will happen in the future."
While potential can often be over-hyped and misconstrued, it is noteworthy that the Madina-born player has not only maintained his performance levels across three consecutive matches but has also shown incremental improvement with each appearance.
Michael Baidoo has more than earned himself a Ghana call-up and the chance to showcase his talent on the international stage. Otto Addo must reward him for his performances soon as he could be a very useful addition to the squad.
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