Partey, Kudus dropped from Black Stars squad for Unity Cup – Five new faces join the team

Ghanaians will not be seeing two of their favourite football stars — Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus — in action for the Black Stars when the team plays in the 2025 Unity Cup in London, England.

The Deputy Captain, Thomas Partey, and the ever-exciting Mohammed Kudus, who plays for West Ham United, have been left out of the squad for the upcoming friendly tournament. This news has surprised many fans who were expecting to see Ghana’s big names light up the London pitch.

Why Partey and Kudus Are Missing

Though no official reason was given for their absence, it is believed that the players have been excused to rest after a long and demanding season in the English Premier League.

Thomas Partey, who plays for Arsenal, recently helped the Black Stars secure a vital win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers by scoring against Madagascar. His absence is a bit surprising because he seemed to be back to full fitness after struggling with injuries earlier in the season.

Mohammed Kudus, who finished the season strongly with a goal for West Ham on the final day of the league, is another big omission. Kudus has become a fan favourite due to his skills, goals, and energy on the pitch.

Two other regular names — Antoine Semenyo and Kamaldeen Sulemana — have also been left out of the squad, as Ghana prepares for this four-nation tournament.

Unity Cup: What Is It About?

The Unity Cup is a friendly football competition that brings together four national teams:

Ghana

Nigeria

Trinidad and Tobago

Jamaica

It will be held in London, and it’s aimed at promoting African and Caribbean unity through football. The matches also give teams a chance to test new players and build chemistry ahead of future competitions.

Ghana’s first match will be a big one — against Nigeria’s Super Eagles on May 28, 2025. The winner of that match will go to the final, while the losing team will play in the third-place game.

New Faces: Five Debutants Join the Black Stars

Even though some big stars are missing, the squad still has some exciting new names, including five debutants who have been called up for the first time.

Among them is Abdul Aziz Issah, a talented young player from Barcelona’s academy. Many football fans and scouts have been watching him, and this call-up could be the beginning of something big for him.

The inclusion of these new players is seen as a move to test fresh talent, build for the future, and increase competition for places in the squad.

Notable Returnees: Familiar Faces Make a Comeback

The squad also features some returning players who have either recovered from injury or been recalled after a long absence. These include:

Abdul Salis Samed – the midfielder is now fit and ready after injury kept him out of action.

Kwame Opoku – the Asante Kotoko striker gets his first national team invitation since 2021. Fans of the local league will be excited to see a Ghana Premier League player in the squad.

Felix Afena-Gyan – after missing out since 2022, the young striker is back to show what he can do in Black Stars colours.

Who’s Still In: Ayew, Salisu and Others Retained

Despite the changes, there are some key players who have been retained from the last squad. These include:

Jordan Ayew – the captain and one of the most experienced players in the team.

Mohammed Salisu – strong and calm at the back.

Gideon Mensah – the reliable left-back.

Benjamin Asare – the goalkeeper who continues to build his profile with the national team.

Their presence will provide some stability and leadership to guide the newer players.

Ghana’s Focus: Blending Experience with Youth

With the blend of experienced campaigners and fresh legs, the Black Stars look ready to use the Unity Cup to test strategies and build a stronger team. The tournament, while not part of official FIFA qualifiers, gives Coach Otto Addo and his team a perfect opportunity to:

Evaluate upcoming talents

Try new formations

Strengthen teamwork and bonding

The coaching staff and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) seem focused on building a stronger, united team ahead of the next phase of the World Cup qualifiers and other future tournaments like AFCON.

Match Preview: Ghana vs Nigeria — A Classic Rivalry Renewed

Ghana’s first match on May 28 will be against Nigeria, their old rivals. Anytime the Black Stars meet the Super Eagles, it’s more than just football — it’s pride, passion, and power.

Both teams have a long history of thrilling matches, and fans in London and around the world will be watching this one closely.

Although it’s a friendly, expect a lot of excitement, especially as both teams want to impress their fans in the diaspora.

What Fans Are Saying: Mixed Reactions to Partey, Kudus Absence

Ghanaians have reacted in mixed ways to the news that Partey and Kudus are not in the squad.

Some believe they deserve rest after a long club season.

Others feel their presence would inspire the team, especially against Nigeria.

Many are also curious about the new players, especially Abdul Aziz from Barcelona.

Football-loving Ghanaians are hoping that the new squad will perform well and give them something to smile about.

Conclusion: Black Stars March On — With or Without Big Names

Even though big names are missing, the Black Stars are not short of ambition. The team, now in London, is focused on making a mark at the 2025 Unity Cup. Whether you’re watching from Accra, Tamale, Kumasi, or London, get ready to support the team as they face off against old rivals and new challenges.

Ghana has always had a rich pool of talent, and this tournament may be the beginning of a new wave of Black Stars heroes.