In what many expected to be a star-studded squad selection for the Black Stars’ friendly game against Mexico, head coach Carlos Queiroz surprised fans with a different approach.

The 23-man squad features several fresh faces and players who are not regulars, as many of the usual names were omitted.

The squad is composed of players from both the domestic league and European leagues, closely monitored by Coach Queiroz, as well as U-23 players who will soon represent Ghana in the upcoming Olympic Games qualifiers.

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Ghana will travel to Mexico for the international friendly on Friday, May 22, 2026.

There have been concerns about the coach’s decision to hand opportunities to non-regular players in a pre-tournament friendly against co-host Mexico.

This article explores possible reasons behind Queiroz’s approach in his first Black Stars call-up.

Opportunity for Local Players

Following persistent criticisms of Black Stars coaches for not prioritising local players, Queiroz decided to open the door for them to showcase their potential.

The local call-ups include two goalkeepers, Solomon Agbasi (Accra Hearts of Oak) and Gideon Aseako (Dreams FC), as well as defenders Razak Simpson (Nations FC), Ebenezer Adade (Dreams FC), Ebenezer Abban (Heart of Lions), and midfielder Salim Adams (Medeama SC).

Players who excel stand a higher chance of breaking into the main squad for the World Cup, depending on the competitiveness of their positions.

Second Chance for Returnees

The technical team also considered players who had previously been part of the squad but were absent due to inconsistent performances.

Returnees include Razak Simpson, Majeed Ashimeru, Ebenezer Annan, Felix Afena-Gyan, Ibrahim Osman, Daniel Agyei, Abdul Aziz Issah, and Nathaniel Adjei.

Although they have been recalled, they must prove themselves with strong performances to convince the technical team.

Opportunity for Debutants

In an effort to nurture and groom new talent, Queiroz invited debutants to showcase their abilities and compete for selection.

The debutants include Prince Amoako Junior, Augustine Boakye, Francis Amuzu, Paul Reverson, Oscar Oppong, Manu Duah, Dacosta Antwi, Joseph Opoku, and other local players.

Creating a Talent Pool

The main rationale behind this squad selection is to provide Queiroz and his technical team with a pool of talent from which they can select the best players for the World Cup.

During his first press conference, Queiroz vowed to consider all Ghanaian footballers in his squad selection, regardless of where they play.

SB/JE

Watch the latest episode of Sports Check with ex-Black Stars forward Augustine Ahinful