Former Ghana international Michael Essien has tipped Kamaldeen Sulemana to play a key role for the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
Despite limited game time and recent struggles in front of goal, the Atalanta winger has remained an important figure for the national team, earning the confidence of coaches and teammates alike.
Speaking to FIFA ahead of the tournament, Essienâwho represented Ghana at the 2006 and 2014 World Cupsâpraised Sulemana’s natural ability, highlighting his pace and dribbling as major strengths.
“Sulemana is a great talent. I managed to see him here, and he’s got a lot of qualities in him. He’s a good dribbler, he’s very fast, and he’s quite strong,” he said.
The former Chelsea midfielder urged the 25-year-old to express himself freely on the pitch, insisting that confidence will be key to unlocking his full potential.
“Hopefully, he can bring that on board. He has to feel free and be himself when he’s on the pitch, then the rest will come,” he added.
Ghana will be making its fifth appearance at the World Cup and has been drawn in a challenging Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama.
The Black Stars begin their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and wrapping up the group stage against Croatia on June 27.