Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah has moved to calm speculation over a potential nationality switch to represent Ghana, saying his immediate focus remains on club football.
The 25-year-old, who was born in London to Ghanaian parents, has long been the subject of interest from Ghanaian football authorities. Reports intensified after the Black Stars secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, prompting renewed public debate about the possible inclusion of diaspora players such as Nketiah and Nottingham Forest winger Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Nketiah, who has played once for England’s senior team and was a standout for their junior sides, still qualifies to switch allegiance under FIFA’s revised 2020 rules. The regulations allow a player to change nationality as long as they have played no more than three senior competitive matches before turning 21, and have not featured at a major tournament such as the World Cup or Africa Cup of Nations.
Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Nketiah acknowledged his Ghanaian heritage but insisted he is not currently considering an international decision.
“At the moment, I’m just enjoying my football with Crystal Palace, that’s been my main focus,” he said.
“I’m Ghanaian and there’s no denying that. I’m proud of my roots and where I’ve come from. I’m sure the future will take care of itself and what will be will be.”
His comments come as Ghana prepares to assemble a competitive squad ahead of next year’s World Cup, with discussions underway about strengthening the team with available dual-nationality players.
For now, however, Nketiah says he is committed to his club duties, leaving the door open but firmly closed for the moment.
