Derrick Arthur Köhn has been left out of Ghana’s latest squad for preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in a decision that has raised fresh questions about selection criteria within the Black Stars setup.
The Union Berlin left-back will not join the team’s camp in Wales, despite having been part of recent national team plans. His omission comes as a surprise given his growing profile in European football and earlier indications that he was firmly in contention for a place in the squad.
Köhn’s international journey with Ghana has not been without complications. Earlier in 2025, delays surrounding FIFA clearance prevented him from officially representing the country, forcing him to miss key World Cup qualifying matches. Those administrative hurdles were eventually resolved, paving the way for his integration into the team under head coach Otto Addo.
Having impressed in Germany and Turkey with his pace, attacking intent, and delivery from wide areas, the 26-year-old had been widely viewed as a strong option at left-back. His club career has taken him through the youth systems of Hamburger SV and Bayern Munich, followed by spells at Bayern Munich II, Willem II, Hannover 96, Galatasaray, and Werder Bremen, before securing a move to Union Berlin in 2025.
Born in Hamburg to Ghanaian parents, Köhn initially represented Germany at youth level before committing his international future to Ghana. He later earned his first Black Stars call-up as part of the country’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
In the wake of his exclusion, the player’s family has publicly expressed concern over the decision. Michel Köhn, his brother, addressed the growing speculation about a possible nationality switch and the reasons behind the omission.
“The reason for his exclusion can only be explained by the Ghana Football Association and Mr Carlos Queiroz,” he said, as the family called for clarity on the situation.
The development adds another layer of intrigue to Ghana’s squad selection as preparations intensify for the global tournament, with competition for places expected to remain fierce in the months ahead.
