The President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Okraku, has expressed disappointment over the growing trend of players with African roots opting to play for European national teams.
His comments come as attention builds toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with debate ongoing about national eligibility and identity in international football. Okraku believes countries in Africa are losing out on talent that should naturally be part of their national setups.
He specifically pointed to players such as Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, suggesting that such footballers should be turning out for their countries of heritage instead of Europe.
“Full-blooded Ghanaians should be representing their countries. That’s my clear opinion on representation when it comes to national teams in football,” he told Sky Sports.
While acknowledging the strength of England’s squad, he added that respect must be given to their technical leadership and structure. He also maintained that Ghana would not be easy opponents when both sides meet at the global tournament.
“But having said that, I think that England has a good team. It’s important we respect the manager and the experience that he brings on board, but what is also true is that they will meet a very, very competitive and determined Ghanaian side.”
Pressed further on Mainoo’s international choice, Okraku described it as unfortunate.
“Well, it’s most unfortunate, to be honest.”
“I wish I never comment on it. I wish I never comment on such situations because for example when I watched the French national team win the World Cup, and the team is made up 11 Africans.
“It always tells me there’s a subject that has to be discussed.”
At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mainoo could end up facing Ghana, his country of heritage, when the Ghana national football team meets the England national football team in what is expected to be a closely watched encounter.
Watch his statement below.
