EXCLUSIVE: Defender Alexander Djiku injury blow hits Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup plans

The experienced centre-back was initially included in head coach Carlos Queiroz’s 28-man provisional squad but arrived in camp in Cardiff carrying a knock picked up after being withdrawn from Spartak Moscow’s Russian Cup final against FC Krasnodar, a match his side went on to win on penalties.

Since joining the national team camp, Djiku has been unable to take part in full training sessions.

With Queiroz set to trim his squad to 26 players ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, the defender is now widely expected to miss out.

The final decision has not yet been made, but uncertainty surrounds who could replace the 28-year-old, who has been a key figure for Ghana in recent years.

Djiku has earned 38 caps for the national team since his debut in October 2020, scoring four goals, and was part of Ghana’s squad at the 2022 World Cup.

After the squad announcement, Ghana will continue their preparations with friendlies against Wales on June 2 at Cardiff City Stadium and Jamaica on June 10.

The Black Stars head into the tournament drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama. They open their campaign against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field, face England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium, and conclude the group stage against Croatia on June 27.

Ghana will be aiming to go beyond the group stage for the first time since their memorable quarter-final run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet