Ghana winger Joseph Paintsil is on the verge of a much-anticipated return to the Black Stars squad for next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali. The LA Galaxy forward has been absent from the national team since September 2024, when he last featured in Ghana’s 1-0 defeat to Angola at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. However, Paintsil’s consistent form in Major League Soccer this season has reignited his international prospects. Black Stars head coach Otto Addo is reportedly ready to hand the 26-year-old attacker a recall for the decisive double-header. Paintsil has been one of Galaxy’s standout performers, scoring 8 goals and providing 2 assists in 23 appearances across all competitions this year. His trademark pace, direct dribbling, and chance creation from wide areas have made him a key figure for the MLS side — qualities Ghana will be eager to benefit from as they push for World Cup qualification. The Black Stars currently top Group I and are determined to secure victories in the September clashes — first away against Chad and then at home against Mali — results that could all but seal their place at the 2026 finals. Paintsil’s return would provide much-needed attacking depth and experience to Ghana’s frontline, bolstering the team’s hopes of booking a fifth World Cup appearance.