Eddie Nketiah has stated, “the future will take care of itself,” as rumors circulate regarding a potential shift in his international loyalty from England to Ghana ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The speculation surrounding him and Nottingham Forest’s Callum Hudson-Odoi has sparked significant discussion in Ghana since the Black Stars secured their spot in the upcoming tournament across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Nketiah, who holds the record as the top scorer for England’s Under-21 team with 16 goals, earned his only senior cap as a substitute in a friendly match against Australia.

Per FIFA regulations introduced in 2020, players can change their national affiliation as long as they haven’t participated in more than three competitive fixtures at the senior level before reaching the age of 21 or played in a major tournament such as the World Cup or Africa Cup of Nations.

“Currently, my main focus is enjoying my time playing with Crystal Palace,” Nketiah told BBC Sport Africa regarding the ongoing rumors.

“I am undeniably proud of my Ghanaian heritage and where I come from.

“I trust that whatever happens in the future will unfold as it should.”

Nketiah, who was born in Lewisham, south London to Ghanaian parents, began his football career at Chelsea before joining Arsenal.

He made his first-team debut for the Gunners at the age of 18 in September 2017, accumulating 38 goals over 168 appearances before transferring to Crystal Palace for £30 million in August 2024.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has previously engaged Nketiah in discussions to consider representing the national side, as they continue to seek talent from the diaspora. Another recent case is Joshua Acheampong, currently with Chelsea and involved with England’s Under-21 team.

Otto Addo, the national team coach, mentioned that several players who declined earlier invitations might reconsider their positions with the World Cup approaching.

Although Nketiah has not ruled out the option of representing Ghana, he clarified that there hasn’t been any recent communication from the GFA.

“I haven’t received any recent calls, so my focus is solely on performing well for my club and helping them secure victories,” he stated.

“If I continue to perform and make the right choices, my international future will naturally fall into place when the time is right.”

In answering the contentious issue of players who haven’t participated in the qualification process being included, Addo explained that each situation would be evaluated on an individual basis.

Talking to 3Sports last month, he noted: “Ghana should take pride as a nation. We must assess each player’s commitment, which is essential, as our unity is strong and I want to preserve it.”

Kofi Adams, the Minister of Sport and Recreation in Ghana, has stated that Addo and his coaching team will have the final say on player selections. However, this situation has displeased some supporters of the Black Stars.

“The prevailing sentiment in Ghana is that players who declined invitations to join the Black Stars for World Cup qualifying should not be called up,” sports journalist Muftawu Abdulai shared with BBC Sport Africa.

“Even some members of Parliament have expressed similar views.

“When you speak with supporters in Ghana, many see these players (who are considering a switch) as being opportunistic.”

In addition to Nketiah and Hudson-Odoi, there are connections to Como’s Jayden Addai, who has represented the Netherlands at youth level and is rumored to be in contention.

Moreover, similarly to Acheampong, Chelsea’s Tyrique George is another young talent from England who could opt to represent Ghana if he chooses. This follows the trend seen with high-profile players such as Antoine Semenyo, Tariq Lamptey, and Inaki Williams making similar decisions in recent times.

“It was previously believed that the former President, Nana Akufo-Addo, was personally involved in attempting to persuade Hudson-Odoi,” Abdulai remarked, adding that he thinks such high-level engagement has ceased.

“(GFA) committee members have also indicated that these players should not be selected.”

Although Nketiah’s playing background is primarily linked to England’s youth national teams, he has established connections with Ghana through various charitable initiatives, garnering recognition at the recent Best of Africa Awards held in London.

“Last summer, I returned to Ghana and engaged in significant efforts there, and I’m also trying to make an impact within my local community,” he elaborated.

“There’s much more to do ahead, but it’s rewarding to be acknowledged for my efforts.”

The Nketiah Foundation focuses on assisting underprivileged and disabled youth in Ghana, and last year, it facilitated a football tournament in the country.

“I believe I’ve been blessed with my talents and opportunities,” he expressed.

“It’s essential to utilize those blessings wisely and strive to uplift as many people as possible, spreading joy through football, which holds immense power.”

Nketiah credits his family for instilling a strong sense of charity in him.

Despite the ongoing discussions online centered around his potential move to Ghana, he prefers to distance himself from the noise.

“I try to limit my time on social media,” he stated. “There’s a mix of negativity and positivity, so I aim to maintain a balanced perspective.”