Ghanaian youngster Ronald Donkor has expressed his excitement and disbelief at being called up to the Black Stars for the first time. The midfielder was named in Carlos Queiroz's squad for Ghana's upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Donkor revealed that he had spoken to Alex before the squad was officially announced but remained unsure until he saw his name on the list.
Donkor's call-up fulfils a childhood ambition for the youngster, who says representing Ghana has always been one of his biggest dreams. "It's been my dream to play for the National team [Black Stars]," he said. "Every Ghanaian player wants to play for the national team and wear the national colours." Donkor's opportunity will also allow him to reunite with two players he knows from his time at JMG Academy.
The young midfielder is particularly looking forward to meeting Alidu Seidu and Augustine Boakye, who were his seniors during their time at the academy. Donkor said his first reaction after receiving the call-up was to share the moment with his mother, who was delighted by the news. "When I received the call-up, I called my mother, and she was happy," he said.
With his first senior international opportunity now secured, Donkor is aware of the expectations that come with playing for Ghana. The youngster says he understands the passion of Ghanaian football fans and is determined to use the opportunity to continue developing his game. Donkor will now look to make the most of his first experience with the Black Stars as Ghana prepare for their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
Donkor's call-up is one of nine new inclusions in the Black Stars squad for the upcoming qualifiers. The team will face Côte d'Ivoire and The Gambia in the qualifiers. Ghana's head coach, Carlos Queiroz, has outlined a long-term plan to rebuild the Black Stars for the 2030 World Cup.
Donkor's journey to the Black Stars began at the JMG Academy, where he was teammates with Alidu Seidu and Augustine Boakye. The youngster says he is eager to learn from his more experienced teammates and make a positive impact on the team. Donkor's call-up is a significant milestone in his career, and he is expected to play a key role in Ghana's future football endeavors.
As Ghana prepares for their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, the team will be without some key players, including Jordan Ayew, who has been ruled out of the qualifiers. The team will also be without Baba Rahman and Antoine Semenyo, who have pulled out of the squad due to injury.
Key points
- Ronald Donkor's call-up to the Black Stars fulfils a childhood ambition for the youngster.
- Donkor will reunite with Alidu Seidu and Augustine Boakye, his former teammates at JMG Academy.
- The young midfielder is determined to use the opportunity to continue developing his game and make a positive impact on the team.
