President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Okraku has opened up on the growing trend of players with African roots opting to represent European national teams instead of their countries of origin, describing the situation as “most unfortunate.”

Speaking in an interview with SkySports, while discussing nationality choices in football, the Ghana FA president made his stance clear, insisting that players with Ghanaian heritage should ideally represent Ghana at international level.

“Full-blooded Ghanaians should be representing their countries. That’s my clear opinion on representation when it comes to national teams in football,” he said.

Okraku’s comments come amid renewed discussion surrounding Kobbie Mainoo, who was eligible to play for Ghana but chose to represent England instead.

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When asked whether Mainoo’s decision hurt him, Okraku appeared visibly frustrated and admitted he preferred not to speak on the matter.

“Well, it’s most unfortunate to be honest. I wish I never comment on it. I wish I never comment on such situations,” he said.

The football administrator then referenced France’s World Cup-winning squad, suggesting the heavy African influence in European national teams raises bigger questions about football identity and representation.

“Because, for example, when I watched the French team win the World Cup and the team is made up of 11 African players, it always tells me that there’s a subject that has to be discussed,” he added.

Despite his concerns, Okraku acknowledged England’s strength ahead of their clash with Ghana, but insisted the Black Stars would provide stern competition.

Watch the video below:



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