Key Takeaways:
- Ghana have approached Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong, hoping to secure his allegiance ahead of the 2026 World Cup
- Acheampong, aged 19, has represented England at every youth level and recently scored his first senior goal for Chelsea
- The defender has made five Premier League appearances this season and is expected to start this weekend’s London derby against Tottenham
International Future in the Spotlight
Josh Acheampong, currently making waves in Chelsea’s first team at just 19 years old, has emerged as a potential addition to the Ghana national squad for the 2026 World Cup. The London-born defender, whose parents hail from Ghana, remains eligible to represent both the African nation and the Republic of Ireland, despite a distinguished record with England’s youth sides from Under-16 upwards.
Ghana, who missed out on qualification for the 2025 African Cup of Nations, are eager to bolster their ranks and have turned their attention to Acheampong. Their successful qualification for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico has increased the urgency as they attempt to persuade the promising centre-half to declare for them at senior international level. Historically, other Chelsea alumni such as Michael Essien, Abdul Rahman Baba and Tariq Lamptey have chosen to represent the Black Stars.
Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong is on Ghana’s radar for a potential senior call-up, though there’s no concern for Chelsea regarding AFCON participation.
He’s also eligible for an Irish passport.#Chelsea
[@NizaarKinsella] pic.twitter.com/5LgKqLmdtB— Blue Season Daily (@BlueSeasonDaily) October 27, 2025
Rapid Rise at Stamford Bridge
Amid a spate of injuries in Chelsea’s defence this campaign, Acheampong has capitalised, seizing his opportunity to feature in five Premier League matches. His composure and tactical intelligence have earned plaudits, notably during a 2-1 triumph over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge in October, where he was instrumental in keeping Liverpool’s £125 million striker Alexander Isak at bay.
Building on his strong performances, the young defender found the net for the first time in senior competition as Chelsea defeated Nottingham Forest 3-0 at The City Ground. This victory played its part in the subsequent dismissal of Forest manager Ange Postecoglou. Acheampong has since started three consecutive league fixtures and is anticipated to be included in the starting XI for the forthcoming derby clash against Tottenham Hotspur.
Impressive Track Record at Youth Level
Acheampong’s experience with England youth teams is extensive; he participated in the 2023 European U-17 Championship and the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup as a member of the England U-17 squad, further underlining his pedigree. On the club stage, he made his senior Chelsea debut three days prior to his 18th birthday, coming off the bench in a 2-0 league win over Tottenham at Stamford Bridge in May 2024.
The Chelsea dressing room also features Tyrique George, another player of Ghanaian heritage, highlighting the club’s ongoing connection with the West African nation.
Premier League Contribution – Match and Goal Data
| Date | Fixture | Competition | Appearance Type | Result | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 2026 | Chelsea vs Tottenham (home) | Premier League | Substitute debut | 2-0 win | First-team debut; late substitution |
| October 2026 | Chelsea vs Liverpool (home) | Premier League | Starter | 2-1 win | Kept Alexander Isak quiet |
| October 2026 | Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest (away) | Premier League | Starter | 3-0 win | Scored first senior goal |
Player Reflections
After netting his first goal for Chelsea at The City Ground, Acheampong remarked: “As soon as I scored, Reece pushed me to the fans, but I just wanted to make sure that we got the win before I celebrated too much, to be honest. Winning made it more special.”
