Black Stars defender Alexander Djiku has declared his full commitment to the Ghanaian national team, ruling out any plans for international retirement despite missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup through a late injury.
The 31-year-old central defender withdrew from Ghana’s final tournament squad after sustaining an injury shortly before the competition began, with technical handlers calling up Derrick Luckassen as his replacement.
Addressing his international future following the tournament, Djiku emphasized that he feels physically strong and determined to help guide the next generation of players through upcoming qualification cycles.
“I don’t know. I try to give the best of me and show them what I can do, but maybe one time I will not be like I am now, and it will be the moment to stop,” Djiku stated. “But for now I feel very good, I feel happy. I try to give my experience to the young people who are coming, and then we will see year by year, competition after competition.”
The Fenerbahçe defender has established himself as one of Ghana’s most reliable defensive performers since making his debut in 2020, representing the nation at major international tournaments including the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Djiku is focusing on his rehabilitation program ahead of pre-season training, with the technical staff expecting him to anchor the national team’s defense during the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
