Black Stars Name Fresh Faces as Partey, Kudus Miss Out on 2025 Unity Cup

Ghana’s Black Stars have named their squad for the 2025 Unity Cup in London—and it comes with a few surprises.

Star midfielders Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus have both been left out of the team, despite strong performances in recent international and club matches.

The Unity Cup, a four-nation tournament involving Ghana, Nigeria, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago, kicks off just three days after the English Premier League ends. Ghana’s first match will be against long-time rivals Nigeria’s Super Eagles on May 28. The winner moves on to the final, while the loser plays for third place.

Partey, who recently scored for Ghana against Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, has been a steady figure in midfield but will sit out this time. Likewise, Kudus, who ended his Premier League season on a high note by scoring for West Ham, has also been excused.

Other key players missing from the lineup include Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, and Kamaldeen Sulemana.

In their absence, Ghana has opened the door for five debutants to shine, including Barcelona youth talent Abdul Aziz Issah, who many fans are eager to see in action. Issah’s inclusion adds youthful energy and international flair to the team.

The squad also welcomes back some familiar faces. Abdul Salis Samed, who has recovered from injury, returns to the midfield, while Kwame Opoku of Asante Kotoko earns his first call-up since 2021. Felix Afena-Gyan, absent since 2022, also rejoins the team.

With a blend of youth and eperience, the Black Stars are hoping to make a strong impression in London, especially with a potential final clash on the line.

The Unity Cup is more than just a football competition—it’s also a celebration of unity, culture, and sporting excellence between African and Caribbean nations.

Fans can expect a spirited performance from the team as they look to build momentum heading into the rest of 2025.