Joseph Paintsil faces another World Cup disappointment after Ghana squad omission

Joseph Paintsil could be set for another heartbreaking World Cup disappointment after being left out of Ghana's 28-man squad for the Black Stars' preparation camp in Cardiff and upcoming friendly against Wales.

The LA Galaxy winger was one of the notable absentees when head coach Carlos Queiroz announced his squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, casting fresh doubt over his chances of making the final 26-man roster for the tournament.

Paintsil has enjoyed a productive spell in Major League Soccer this season, scoring three goals and providing two assists in 11 appearances for LA Galaxy. His performances had led many supporters to believe he would be rewarded with a place in the squad.

The omission has revived memories of the 2022 World Cup, when the winger was also left out of Ghana's squad for the tournament in Qatar despite strong club form.

At the time, then-head coach Otto Addo explained that the decision was not a reflection of Paintsil's quality.

Four years on, Paintsil once again finds himself on the outside looking in despite producing encouraging numbers at club level.

The 28-year-old has been a regular member of the Black Stars squad in recent years and featured during Ghana's World Cup qualifying campaign, making his absence from the preparation camp one of the biggest talking points surrounding Queiroz's selection.

With the final World Cup squad expected to be chosen from the current group, Paintsil's chances of making the tournament appear increasingly slim unless injuries or late changes force a rethink.

The Black Stars have already opened camp at Dragon Park in Cardiff ahead of their friendly against Wales on June 2 before travelling to North America for the World Cup.

Ghana have been drawn in Group L and will face Panama, England and Croatia as they seek to reach the knockout stages for the first time since 2010. For Paintsil, however, another World Cup dream may be slipping away despite his consistent performances in MLS.