Carlos Queiroz has reportedly submitted Ghana’s provisional squad to FIFA ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

The provisional list, submitted ahead of FIFA’s official deadline, features a mix of headline names and surprising omissions as the Black Stars ramp up their tournament preparations.

One of the most talked-about omissions is defender Mohammed Salisu, reportedly sidelined by injury. The absence of veteran captain André Ayew further fuels debate over the squad’s makeup.

In contrast, injured midfielder Mohammed Kudus has reportedly made the cut despite lingering fitness doubts. Though sidelined since the start of the year, hope remains that he will recover in time for the final squad.

The Ghana national team is currently stationed in Puebla, Mexico, sharpening its skills ahead of Friday’s pre-World Cup friendly against the host nation.

Yet, reports indicate that a number of players tipped for Ghana’s final World Cup squad are notably absent from the current camp for the friendly.

Queiroz is set to use the Mexico clash as a final audition for his players before unveiling his definitive 26-man squad on June 1, FIFA’s submission deadline.

Following the Mexico friendly, Ghana will take on Wales in another warm-up game before heading to North America for the tournament.

The Black Stars will begin their World Cup campaign against the Panama national football team on June 17, followed by the England national football team on June 23 and the Croatia national football team on June 27, in Group L.

Ghana will aim to make a stronger impression at the tournament after suffering group-stage eliminations at the 2014 and 2022 FIFA World Cups.