Kofi Kyereh targets 2026 World Cup return after three-year injury layoff

Key facts

• Daniel Kofi Kyereh suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury in 2022 that sidelined him for almost three years.
• He underwent surgery in February 2023 and a second procedure in 2024 after a setback.
• Kyereh returned to full training in January 2026 and made five appearances for Freiburg's reserve side since April 2026.
• The 30-year-old midfielder was part of Ghana's 2022 World Cup squad in Qatar.
• He told Joy Sports he aims to play full minutes in one or two games before the 2026 World Cup.
• Kyereh admitted he came close to retiring during his injury layoff but fought off those thoughts.
• Ghana will face Panama in their opening Group I fixture at the 2026 World Cup.

A dream deferred: Kyereh eyes World Cup return

Daniel Kofi Kyereh, the Black Stars midfielder, has set his sights on a place in Ghana's final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, three years after a devastating anterior cruciate ligament injury nearly ended his career. The 30-year-old, who made his return to competitive football last month with Freiburg's U23 team, described making the squad as a dream come true. "Yes, I do," Kyereh told Joy Sports when asked if he wanted to play at the World Cup. "That is another dream and goal I am striving for. I believe in it." Kyereh was part of Ghana's squad at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and now hopes to represent his country again at the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico. He acknowledged that the final decision rests with the coaching staff. "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," he said.

The long road back from injury

Kyereh's journey back to fitness has been arduous. He suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury in 2022 that sidelined him for almost three years. He first underwent surgery in February 2023 to repair the damage, but a major setback a year later, just as he was nearing a return, required a second surgical procedure. The injury kept him out of action until late 2025, when he returned to partial team training, and he resumed full training only in January 2026. Speaking to Joy Sports in a candid interview, Kyereh revealed that retirement crossed his mind during the darkest moments. "To be honest, I was fighting against those thoughts (of retirement). The truth is that they came up here and there. Especially in these difficult times of setbacks," he said. He added, "I was going two steps ahead and one back. Yeah, there were definitely times when it came to my mind, but to be honest, I was not allowing such thoughts beyond a few seconds."

Freiburg return and World Cup ambitions

Since returning to full fitness in April 2026, Kyereh has made five appearances for Freiburg's reserve side. He is now focused on building match fitness ahead of the World Cup. "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," he said. Kyereh also issued a rallying cry for Ghana's campaign, insisting the Black Stars must match the intensity of their opponents to progress from Group I. He admitted he lacks specific knowledge of Panama, their opening opponents, but expects a fierce physical battle. "I don't know any player from Panama, to be honest, but what I am sure of is that none of them will be less motivated than our most motivated player," Kyereh stated.

Ghana's World Cup prospects and squad dynamics

Ghana's Group I fixtures will see them face Panama, with other opponents yet to be determined. Kyereh's experience and creativity could be valuable assets for the Black Stars, who are aiming to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since 2010. The midfielder's return adds depth to a squad that includes stars like Thomas Partey, with whom Kyereh said it is a pleasure to play. Kyereh made his Black Stars debut in 2021 and has since become a regular call-up when fit. His determination to overcome injury and reclaim his place underscores his commitment to the national team. "That is another dream and goal I am striving for. I believe in it," he reiterated.

What lies ahead: Kyereh's path to the squad

With the World Cup still months away, Kyereh has a narrow window to prove his fitness and form to Ghana's coaching staff. He will need to continue his comeback with Freiburg's reserve team and potentially earn minutes with the senior side to convince selectors. The midfielder remains realistic about the challenges. "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," he said. Kyereh's story of perseverance resonates beyond football, highlighting the mental and physical toll of a long-term injury. His near-retirement revelation adds a layer of poignancy to his comeback. As he strives to make the World Cup squad, Kyereh embodies the resilience required to overcome adversity at the highest level.

The bottom line

• Daniel Kofi Kyereh aims to be part of Ghana's 2026 World Cup squad after a three-year absence due to an ACL injury.
• He underwent two surgeries and came close to retiring during his recovery.
• Kyereh returned to full fitness in January 2026 and has played five games for Freiburg's U23 team.
• He was part of Ghana's 2022 World Cup squad and hopes to repeat the experience.
• Ghana's World Cup campaign begins with a Group I match against Panama, and Kyereh has called for high intensity.
• The final decision on his inclusion rests with the Black Stars coaching staff.