Ghana’s Black Stars will begin preparations for the quest for a fifth AFCON title on December 22, 2021 in Qatar ahead of the tournament in Cameroon in January.
The national team has been built on experience and youth exuberance as seen in the last year, with several new players making their debut.
ABDUL FATAW ISHAHAKU
At the age of 17, there is no doubt he is the next big thing in Ghana football, having exploded on the scene less than a year and is currently one of the best players in the domestic league.
KAMALDEEN SULEMANA
Another teenager in the team who has shown age is just a number following his blistering start to life in France. Sulemana has been outstanding for Stade Rennais and has seized the spotlight in Ligue 1 ahead of the likes of Mbappe, Neymar and Messi.
AFCON 2021 will be his first and from games played, in the qualifiers for both AFCON and the World Cup, there is no denying he is a starter.
DANIEL KOFI KYERE
Yet to seize the opportunity with the national team, and could have gotten his first assist, had De Reuck not fouled Daniel Amartey in the box during the World Cup qualifier against South Africa.
Despite the few minutes he has had with the team, he is expected to make the trip to Cameroon. With ten assists in the Bundesliga II and five goals, Kofi-Kyereh could be Ghana’s source of creativity.
ALEXANDER DJIKU
Very experienced and an important player for the Black Stars. The Strasbourg player chose Ghana over France and has since been impressive for the Black Stars.
He joined the team in 2020 and his presence at the back has been crucial for the Black Stars. Regardless of who he pairs with, he seems to have that calmness which keeps Ghana’s backline shut.
IDRISU BABA
Another stalwart for the Black Stars team. His presence in the middle with Thomas Partey always provides the team with solidity as well as fluidity. While he stays firm shielding the defence, it gives Partey the chance to be mobile.
Baba has been important for Real Mallorca with several clubs including Everton interested in his signature.