Crystal Palace striker Eddie Nketiah says “future will take care of itself” amid Ghana switch talk

Eddie Nketiah has responded to growing speculation about a potential international switch from England to Ghana, saying he is focused on his club football and believes “the future will take care of itself.”

The Crystal Palace striker has been at the centre of debate in Ghana following the Black Stars’ qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His possible inclusion, along with Nottingham Forest winger Callum Hudson-Odoi, has divided opinion among supporters as the national team steps up preparations for the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Nketiah, 26, holds the record for most goals with England’s Under-21 side, and his only senior appearance came in a friendly against Australia in October 2023. Under FIFA’s eligibility rules, he remains able to switch nationality because he has not played a competitive senior match.

Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Nketiah said he is proud of his Ghanaian heritage but is not allowing the conversation to distract him.

"At the moment, I’m just enjoying my football with Crystal Palace; that has been my focus," he said. "I’m Ghanaian and there’s no denying that. I’m proud of my roots. I’m sure the future will take care of itself and what will be will be."

Born in Lewisham to Ghanaian parents, Nketiah spent his early years at Chelsea before joining Arsenal and later moving to Palace in 2024 for £30m.