Member of Parliament for Ketu North and current chairman of the MTN Elite U19 Championship, Hon. Eric Edem Agbana, has stirred debate with remarks about future Black Stars selection ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former youth football advocate was appointed chairman of the Elite U19 Championship in September 2025, replacing Abdul Salam Yakubu. He has since been vocal about accountability, structure, and the need for integrity in national football.
In a recent statement, Agbana warned that players who had declined national team call-ups during the World Cup qualification phase should not be considered for future selection.
“If you ask me, those who refused call-ups before the qualification have not shown enough loyalty to the country,” he said. “They must not be included.”
Agbana’s comments come as Ghana’s football stakeholders deliberate on integrating new faces into the national team pool ahead of the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada next summer.
Observers suggest the comment may be targeted at players who declined call-ups, citing club demands, injury, or other reasons. The emphasis on loyalty also underscores an emerging selection philosophy that rewards commitment and availability.
Ghana last appeared at the World Cup in 2022. As preparations for the 2026 edition ramp up, Agbana’s ultimatum adds pressure on both returning veterans and emerging talents.
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