Black Stars defender Mohammed Salisu will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a serious knee injury, team doctor Dr Prince Pambo has confirmed.

The AS Monaco centre-back sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a French Ligue 1 clash against Olympique Lyonnais in January. The 26-year-old has since undergone successful surgery and has started gym-based rehabilitation as part of his recovery process.

However, following a detailed medical assessment in France, Dr Pambo disclosed that Salisu is expected to be sidelined for at least nine months, ruling him out of the global tournament.

“Mohammed Salisu will miss the World Cup; his knee injury requires nine months to recover,” Dr Pambo told Asempa FM.

The setback is a significant blow for head coach Otto Addo, with Salisu having established himself as a key figure in Ghana’s defence in recent years.

Dr Pambo also provided an update on midfielder Francis Abu, who suffered a severe ankle injury during Ghana’s Kirin Cup encounter against Japan in November.

“Francis Abu was expected to recover within five to six months after surgery, but he is responding well to treatment,” he added.

Ghana have been drawn in Group L for the tournament, where they will open their campaign against Panama before facing England and Croatia.

The Black Stars are expected to regroup in March for international friendly matches against Austria and Germany as part of preparations for the World Cup.

Head coach Otto Addo is scheduled to name his final squad on June 1.