World Cup: Derek Boateng warns of ‘chaos’ if Nketia, Hudson-Odoi are called

Former Black Stars midfielder Derek Boateng has warned that inviting some Europe-based players could disrupt team unity ahead of Ghana’s 2026 World Cup campaign.

Mr Boateng made the comments on Sporty FM on Thursday morning while reacting to growing calls for the inclusion of players such as Eddie Nketiah and Callum Hudson-Odoi in the national team.

According to him, the issue goes beyond talent and quality, insisting that commitment, fairness, and respect for the national team structure must take precedence.

“I feel like those players should not be called. They should not be invited,” he stated. “No, it’s not fair.”

Drawing from personal experience, the former midfielder recounted an incident during his time with the Black Stars to explain why selective commitment should not be tolerated.

“I quite remember that when I was with the national team, we went to Congo to play a qualifier. Kevin-Prince Boateng was invited, he didn’t show up,” he said. “The next game we were going to play against England, he came to the hotel and we made sure he was out of the squad.”

Mr Boateng said the decision at the time was deliberate and meant to protect team discipline.

“He will not play, and [then GFA President Kwesi] Nyantakyi made sure he left the camp,” he explained. “Because we cannot go to African Cup of Nations and go and play on a terrible pitch, then we come to England, Wembley, and you show up that you want to play.”

He argued that allowing such behaviour sends the wrong signal to players who consistently honour call-ups, especially under difficult conditions.

“So now you’re good? No,” he added. “It is not fair to the rest of the players.”

When asked whether the inclusion of Nketiah, Hudson-Odoi, and other Europe-based talents would significantly improve the Black Stars, Mr Boateng dismissed the suggestion.

“They will not add nothing,” he said. “It is not fair.”

He stressed that football success depends heavily on cohesion and shared sacrifice, not just individual skill.

“Look, football is a teamwork,” Mr Boateng noted. “Bringing them will bring a lot of chaos and a lot of trouble to the national team.”

The comments come at a time when debate has intensified over Ghana’s player recruitment strategy, particularly concerning dual nationals and players who previously declined or delayed commitments to the Black Stars.

Supporters of broader call-ups argue that Ghana must attract the best available talent to compete at the highest level, especially with qualification for the 2026 World Cup at stake. Critics, however, insist that loyalty and consistency should outweigh late interest driven by career considerations.

Mr Boateng’s intervention adds a strong player-perspective to the discussion, highlighting the potential impact of selection decisions on morale within the squad.