Francis Amuzu plays for Gremio in Brazil
Grêmio forward Francis Amuzu has found himself at the centre of a social media storm after declaring his desire to play for Ghana, a move that many fans see as too little, too late.
For a section of Ghanaian football supporters, Amuzu’s timing reeks of opportunism.
The winger, who previously turned down Black Stars invitations, suddenly rekindled his interest in the team shortly after Ghana sealed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In an interview with Asempa FM, Amuzu confirmed his desire to play for Ghana. He stressed that his motivation is personal, rooted in his father and his Ghanaian heritage, and not the upcoming World Cup.
‘I want to play for Ghana to honour my dad, not for the World Cup’ – Francis Amuzu
“To be honest, it is not for the World Cup. Two years ago, I made my Ghanaian passport. it is also part of my decision to play, also because of my father,” Amuzu explained.
While the winger’s intentions are clear, the question remains: has FIFA officially approved his nationality switch from Belgium to Ghana?
Early reports
In January 2023, Ghanaian outlets reported that Amuzu had written to FIFA requesting a switch, citing a letter in which he wrote:
“I deem it an obligation to play for my mother country since my parents are Ghanaian.”
Other outlets reported that he had “completed his nationality switch.”
However, neither FIFA nor the Ghana FA has released an official confirmation.
What FIFA records show
FIFA’s Change of Association Platform, launched in 2025, lists approved nationality switches from January 2025 onward. Amuzu’s name does not appear.
Even looking at older bulletins and circulars, there is no public record of an approved change for him.
Databases like Transfermarkt, FlashScore, and SofaScore continue to list him as a Belgian.
Per multiple reports, these platforms update nationality data only when FIFA or an official federation confirms a change.
Passport vs. official eligibility
Amuzu’s Ghanaian passport, obtained two years ago, confirms his nationality.
However, because he previously played for Belgium’s U19 and U21 teams, FIFA requires a formal one-time change of association before he can play for Ghana in official matches.
As of now, no FIFA approval letter has been made public.
Verdict
Amuzu wants to represent Ghana, and his eligibility by birth is clear. But official FIFA approval is not publicly documented, meaning he is not yet officially cleared to play for the Black Stars in competitive fixtures.
The process appears to have been initiated, but until FIFA or the Ghana FA confirms, the nationality switch remains unverified.
FKA/JE
Meanwhile, watch the latest Sports Check interview with Alex Kotey, the GFA Referees Manager below:
