New Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz has named a 23-man squad for the upcoming friendly against Mexico on Friday, May 22, using the fixture as a platform to assess options ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match falls outside the official FIFA international window, meaning European clubs are not obligated to release players.
As a result, key figures such as Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew, Thomas Partey and Inaki Williams are unavailable.
Queiroz has instead opted for a mix of fringe players, debutants and home-based talent, pointing to his merit-based selection claims since taking charge in April.
The squad selection is part of an ongoing evaluation of Ghana’s player pool as he builds toward naming a final 26-man World Cup roster.
Debutants and returning names
Several players are in line for their first senior caps, including Augustine Boakye, Paul Reverson and Joseph Opoku.
Midfielder Majeed Ashimeru returns after a lengthy injury layoff, while forward Felix Afena-Gyan is back in the fold after his last appearance in May 2025.
Home-based players handed opportunity
Six domestic-based players have also been included, led by Medeama SC’s Salim Adams. Others include Ebenezer Abban, Ebenezer Adade, Gidios Aseako, Solomon Agbasi and Razak Simpson.
For these players, the friendly presents a high-stakes audition to prove their readiness at international level.
World Cup preparations intensify
The Mexico clash is one of three warm-up matches lined up before the World Cup. Ghana will also face Wales and another yet-to-be-confirmed opponent in the United States.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Panama and Croatia, with their campaign set to begin against Panama on June 17.
Queiroz is expected to announce his final squad on June 1 as preparations enter the decisive phase.
