Eddie Nketiah has stated that “the future will take care of itself” as rumors continue about a possible switch in his international career from England to Ghana ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The discussion around him and Callum Hudson-Odoi has grown in Ghana since the Black Stars confirmed their place in the tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Nketiah, who is the all-time top scorer for England’s Under-21 team with 16 goals, has only one senior appearance, which came in a friendly match against Australia.
According to FIFA rules introduced in 2020, players may switch national teams if they have not played more than three competitive senior matches before the age of 21 and have not taken part in a major event such as the World Cup or the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nketiah said that his main priority is to enjoy his time at Crystal Palace while the discussions continue. He added that he is proud of his Ghanaian background and believes the future will unfold naturally.
Reactions in Ghana
Nketiah, born in Lewisham in south London to Ghanaian parents, began his career at Chelsea before moving to Arsenal. He made his first-team debut for Arsenal at the age of 18 in September 2017 and scored 38 goals in 168 matches before joining Crystal Palace for £30 million in August 2024.
The national football association in Ghana has previously held talks with Nketiah about joining the national team as part of efforts to bring in more players from the diaspora. Another example is Joshua Acheampong, who plays for Chelsea and is involved with England’s Under-21 team.
The head coach has said that some players who declined earlier invitations may change their minds with the World Cup coming closer.
Although Nketiah has not dismissed the idea of representing Ghana, he explained that he has not had any recent contact with the association. He stated that his focus is on performing for his club and helping them win matches. He believes that if he continues to do well, his international career will become clear at the right time.
There has been debate in Ghana about including players who did not take part in the qualification matches. The coach said that each case will be reviewed individually and that the team’s unity is important.
Some supporters believe that players who turned down earlier invitations should not be called up. Several voices in the country share the view that players considering a switch at this stage may appear opportunistic.
Alongside Nketiah and Hudson-Odoi, there is interest in Jayden Addai from Como, who has represented the Netherlands at youth level. Tyrique George of Chelsea is another young player who could choose Ghana in the future, similar to cases such as Antoine Semenyo, Tariq Lamptey, and Inaki Williams.
Personal Background and Community Work
Although Nketiah’s international youth career is tied to England, he also has strong links to Ghana through his charity work. He has been recognised for his involvement in community projects supporting young people in both Ghana and the United Kingdom.
He explained that he visited Ghana last year and took part in several activities there, while also working to support people in his local community. The Nketiah Foundation helps underprivileged and disabled youth in Ghana and organised a football tournament in the country.
He said he feels grateful for the opportunities he has had and wants to use them to help others, especially through football.
Nketiah credits his family for inspiring his charitable values. Despite ongoing online discussions about his possible switch to Ghana, he said he prefers to avoid social media due to the mix of positive and negative comments.
Related topics
- African football;
- Crystal Palace;
- Ghana;
- England men’s national team.
