Joseph Paintsil Urges Carlos Queiroz to Pick Best Squad for World Cup

Joseph Paintsil has appealed to new Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz to assemble the strongest possible team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Ghana prepares for its fifth appearance on football’s biggest stage.

The LA Galaxy winger, who missed out on the 2022 tournament in Qatar, reaffirmed his commitment to the national team while emphasizing the importance of unity and merit-based selection ahead of the global showpiece in North America.

Speaking to VamosNetwork, Paintsil made it clear that representing Ghana remains his top priority, regardless of past setbacks.

“I always need to respect the call-up of the national team. I’m playing for the people of Ghana, not for an individual person,” he said.

The forward added that his focus remains on proving his value whenever given the opportunity to feature for the Black Stars.

“I’m always going to represent my country. I’m just doing it for Ghanaians to know my worth and to know that I can also deliver whenever I get the chance.”

Looking ahead, Paintsil expressed hope that the new technical leadership will prioritise quality and performance when selecting the squad for the tournament.

“We are just hoping and praying that the new coach will do the needful to take the best players to the World Cup to perform and to make Ghanaians proud,” he added.

The Black Stars will fine-tune preparations with international friendlies against Mexico national football team and Wales national football team before heading into a challenging Group L campaign at the World Cup.

Ghana will open their tournament against Panama before facing England and Croatia in subsequent group matches.