Michael Essien tips Kudus as Ghana’s key man ahead of 2026 World Cup
Former Ghana international Michael Essien has identified Mohammed Kudus as the standout figure in the current Ghana national football team squad, expressing confidence in the country’s emerging generation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Essien, who has served as assistant coach at FC Nordsjælland since 2020, told FIFA.com that the Black Stars could benefit significantly from the strong pipeline of Ghanaian talent being developed through the club’s long-standing partnership with the Right to Dream Academy in Accra. The initiative has created a pathway for young players to transition from Ghana into European football, producing several key members of the national team.
Players such as Kudus, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Ernest Nuamah and Ibrahim Osman have all progressed through the system and are expected to play prominent roles when Ghana competes at the global tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Speaking on Kudus in particular, Essien highlighted the midfielder’s growing influence on the international stage, describing him as a central figure for the national side. He stressed the need to support and protect the player as he continues to develop into one of Ghana’s most important assets.
Essien also praised Sulemana’s attacking qualities, pointing to his pace, dribbling ability and physical strength as attributes that could prove decisive for Ghana in high-level competition. He urged the winger to play with confidence and freedom to fully realise his potential.
Beyond the established names, Essien indicated that the next generation of players was already emerging from Nordsjælland’s ranks. He singled out Caleb Yirenkyi as one of the promising talents, commending his discipline, work ethic and adaptability on the pitch.
Looking ahead to the World Cup, Essien acknowledged the challenge facing Ghana in a group that includes England national football team, Croatia national football team and Panama national football team. However, he maintained that tournament football often produces surprises, insisting that Ghana has the quality to compete if the team approaches each match with focus and determination.
He added that missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations could serve as added motivation for the players, as they seek to reassert themselves on the global stage.
