Tekpetey considers nationality switch after persistent Black Stars snub

Ghanaian striker Bernard Tekpetey is contemplating a nationality switch to Bulgaria after continuous omissions from the Black Stars.

Despite his stellar performances for Ludogorets in the Bulgarian top flight over the past four seasons, the 26-year-old has not been recalled to the national team since his appearances in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Tekpetey, who has scored 15 goals this season, only trails Mohammed Kudus in goal-scoring among the players named in Otto Addo’s 26-man squad for the June World Cup qualifiers.

The striker expressed his frustration and revealed that he has a Bulgarian passport, which makes him eligible to play for Bulgaria.

“I think it might happen because I have a Bulgarian passport where I can switch to play,” Tekpetey told Joy Sports.

“They contacted me, but I told them I needed to discuss this with the family first. I come from Ghana, and I cannot do anything, and my mom is going to be unhappy. First, I need to speak with my mom.”

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He emphasised the importance of his mother’s wishes, noting her excitement when his name was included in Ghana’s provisional squad previously.

“I know my mom loves and wishes for me to play in the national team. Even when my name was in the AFCON provisional squad and someone told her, she was happy,” he added. “I just didn’t want to discuss it at the moment with my mom. I just want to stay calm, play my game and see what is going to happen next.”

However, Tekpetey’s potential switch to Bulgaria might be complicated by FIFA rules, given his two appearances for Ghana at the AFCON. In his absence from the national team, Ghana has relied on players like Antoine Semenyo and Jordan Ayew for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers.