Kofi Kyereh eyes World Cup return after three-year injury nightmare

Daniel-Kofi Kyereh has set his sights on a place in Ghana’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even as he works his way back from one of the most gruelling injury spells of his career.

The 30-year-old midfielder missed nearly three years of football after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury, only recently returning to action with Freiburg’s U23 side last month. Despite the long road back and limited game time, Kyereh has not shelved his international ambitions.

“Yes, I do,” he told Joy Sports when asked whether a World Cup appearance was on his mind. “That is another dream and goal I am striving for. I believe in it.”

Kyereh was part of the Black Stars squad that travelled to Qatar for the 2022 World Cup, where Ghana exited at the group stage. Now, with the tournament headed to the United States, Canada, and Mexico, he is determined to be part of another chapter, but on his own terms.

“I need to be honest with myself, but until then, I have some weeks or months to work on getting in the best shape I can be. My aim is that before the World Cup, I can have one or two games where I can play the full minutes available. I believe I can do it and get in shape for the World Cup.”

Crucially, Kyereh was candid about the line between ambition and reality. He made clear that simply making the trip would not be enough, he wants to contribute meaningfully or not go at all.

“On the other hand, I need to be honest with myself and see every day how I am feeling because I don’t want to go to the World Cup just to be a part of it or just have it on my CV that I have been to another World Cup if I cannot really help the team or have the impact like before.”

He also acknowledged that the final call rests with others. “At the end of the day, I am not the one who decides. I can just do what I can and leave the rest to the decisionmakers.”

Kyereh has earned 18 caps for the Black Stars and featured at two international tournaments. If his recovery continues on track, he will be pushing to add a third.