‘We are second choice’ â?? Samuel Osei Kuffuor on Ghana’s battle for dual-nationality players

‘We are second choice’ â?? Samuel Osei Kuffuor on Ghana’s battle for dual-nationality players

Former Black Stars defender Samuel Osei Kuffuor has weighed in on Ghana’s ongoing debate over dual-nationality players, urging a more proactive approach in recruiting diaspora talent ahead of future tournaments.

In an exclusive interview with 3Sports, the ex-Bayern Munich defender admitted that Ghana often finds itself at a disadvantage when competing with European nations for players of Ghanaian heritage.

“If your son is Jude Bellingham, both parents from Ghana, will you allow Jude Bellingham to play for Ghana or England? Whether we like it or not, we are second choice. ” Kuffuor said.

His comments come amid renewed discussions about player selection and national allegiance as Ghana continues to scout dual-national prospects ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The issue has become increasingly significant, with several top talents eligible to represent multiple countries opting for European nations.

Kuffuor, who earned 54 caps for Ghana, stressed the importance of early engagement with such players.

“If Doku, Jeremie Frimpong, and all those players… If we had got them young, all of them would play for Ghana. Let’s get them young. That’s why I’m using the office in Europe,” he explained.

Players like Jérémy Doku (Belgium) and Jeremie Frimpong (Netherlands), both of Ghanaian descent, have chosen to represent European countries, highlighting the competitive nature of international recruitment.

As the mundial inches closer, the debate continues on whether new Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz should include diaspora players who initially opted to play for other nations. For Kuffuor, the solution lies in early identification and engagement – before Ghana becomes a second thought.

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