Diaspora soccer player Eddie Nketiah has spoken out amid speculation that he could switch his international allegiance from England to Ghana ahead of the 2026 Fifa World Cup.
The possible switch has sparked fierce debate in Ghana since the Black Stars sealed their place at next year’s tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
The Crystal Palace striker, who is the record goalscorer for England’s Under-21 side with 16 goals, won his only senior cap as a substitute in a friendly against Australia in October 2023.
Under Fifa rules introduced in 2020, a player can switch nationality provided they have played no more than three competitive matches at senior level prior to turning 21, or been involved at a major championship such as the World Cup.
In a recent interview, he said “At the moment, I’m just enjoying my football with Crystal Palace – that’s been my main focus.”
He said “I’m Ghanaian and there’s no denying that. Obviously I’m proud of my roots and where I’ve come from. I’m sure the future will take care of itself and what will be will be.”
Eddie Nketiah was born in Lewisham, south London, to Ghanaian parents, he began his youth career at Chelsea before moving to Arsenal.
He made his debut for the Gunners as an 18-year-old in September 2017 and went on to score 38 goals in 168 appearances before his £30m move to across London to Crystal Palace in August 2024.
Nketiah has previously been approached by the Ghana Football Association (GFA), which regularly scouts for diaspora talent.
National team head coach Otto Addo has revealed that some players who resisted those overtures in the past have changed their mind now a World Cup is on the horizon.
When addressing the hot topic of players who had no role in qualification being called up, Addo explained consideration would be given on a “case by case” basis.
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