Justify your inclusion? Carlos Queiroz names twenty-three players for Mexico friendly

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has named a 23-man squad for Ghana’s upcoming international friendly against Mexico national football team, selecting a balanced mix of experienced internationals, rising European-based talents and standout performers from the domestic league.

The squad announcement reflects a clear strategy by the technical team to assess depth, reward current form and continue building a competitive unit ahead of major assignments, while also giving valuable exposure to several promising U-23 players expected to feature in Ghana’s upcoming Olympic Games qualifying campaign.

Among the headline names is Majeed Ashimeru, whose inclusion marks a welcome return after an extended injury layoff. The midfielder has endured a difficult period on the sidelines due to a muscle problem that restricted his involvement for both club and country, but his return offers Ghana a boost in midfield with his composure, creativity and experience.

Another notable inclusion is Felix Afena-Gyan, who returns to the national setup for the first time since featuring against Trinidad and Tobago national football team in the Unity Cup in London in May last year. The forward will be eager to use the friendly as an opportunity to reignite his international career and remind supporters of his attacking qualities.

The squad also features several exciting young talents making waves abroad, including Abdul Aziz Issah of FC Barcelona Atlètic, Ebenezer Annan of AS Saint-Étienne, Ibrahim Osman of Birmingham City F.C., and Paul Reverson of AFC Ajax, all of whom represent the next generation of Ghanaian football talent.

On the home front, Salim Adams headlines the local contingent after an impressive campaign with Medeama SC. He is joined by Ebenezer Abban of Heart of Lions, Ebenezer Adade of Dreams F.C. and Razak Simpson, captain of Nations FC, whose leadership and consistency have earned him deserved recognition.

With Ghana set to depart for Mexico on Friday, May 22, the friendly promises to be a valuable test for Queiroz and his players. More than just a match, it represents another important step in shaping the future of the Black Stars, blending established quality with youthful ambition as Ghana looks ahead with renewed purpose.