Black Stars defender Gideon Mensah has revealed that the Ghana national team is adjusting well to the demanding training style introduced by new head coach Carlos Queiroz as preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking from the team’s training camp in Cardiff, the Auxerre left-back said the players are embracing the intense training sessions despite the difficult conditions.
According to Mensah, the team has been holding two training sessions daily as they prepare for the tournament.
“I think it’s going very well. Everybody is looking sharp, and we have a new coach with a new form of training,” Mensah said. “It’s something we are not really used to, but we are adapting very well.”
The defender explained that Queiroz has introduced strict methods both on and off the pitch, including discipline at the hotel and high-intensity fitness sessions. He believes the hard work will help the team become stronger ahead of the World Cup.
Mensah also spoke about the hot weather conditions in Cardiff, saying the climate is helping the players prepare for the summer tournament.
“We are going to the World Cup in the summer, so this is good preparation for us,” he added.
The Black Stars have been drawn in a difficult Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama.
Despite the tough challenge ahead, Mensah remains confident Ghana can compete strongly and improve on their performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where the team failed to progress beyond the group stage.
The 26-year-old defender described the possibility of playing in a second World Cup as a proud moment in his career.
Having spent eight years with the national team, he says he now feels like one of the experienced players responsible for guiding younger members of the squad.
Mensah also admitted he was uncertain about receiving a call-up following the appointment of Queiroz but said his consistent performances for French club Auxerre helped him earn his place in the team.
He stressed that Ghana’s immediate target is to qualify from the group stage before thinking about bigger ambitions in the competition.
