Augustine Boakye will not join the Ghana national football team squad for Friday’s international friendly against Mexico after being held back by his club, AS Saint-Étienne, ahead of their crucial Ligue 1 playoff campaign.
The Ghanaian midfielder is expected to remain in France as Saint-Étienne prepare for their relegation playoff fixtures, which begin on Tuesday. The French side are focused on securing their top-flight status and are unwilling to risk losing one of their important squad members during a decisive period of the season.
Boakye’s absence comes as a setback for Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz, who had hoped to include the talented midfielder in preparations for the high-profile encounter against Mexico. The former Wolfsberger AC player has enjoyed a growing influence since joining Saint-Étienne and has become a key option in midfield with his creativity and energy.
Saint-Étienne’s decision underlines the importance of the upcoming playoffs, with the historic French club fighting to avoid dropping out of Ligue 1. The club’s technical team reportedly prefers Boakye to stay fully focused on domestic duties rather than travel across continents for international action.
The Black Stars are expected to continue preparations without the midfielder as Ghana seek to test their squad depth against a strong Mexican side in Friday’s international showdown.
