Jonathan Mensah Eyes Black Stars Return, Sends Bold Message to Ghana Coach Otto Addo

• A forgotten Ghanaian central defender has hinted at his readiness to play for the Black Stars if called upon by coach Otto Addo
• Despite being unattached to a club since January 1, 2025, the veteran said he was ready to don the national team's colours again
• Jonathan Mensah's last appearance for the senior men's national team came in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers almost three years ago

Veteran defender Jonathan Mensah has made a bold declaration that could shake up coach Otto Addo's defensive set-up for the Black Stars of Ghana.

Despite being without a club since the start of the year, the 34-year-old admitted on a YouTube podcast that he aimed to rejoin the national squad.

Jonathan Mensah eyes Black Stars return

Mensah last represented Ghana in a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Central African Republic on June 5, 2022.

Despite his prolonged absence from international duty, he made it clear where his loyalty lies.

"I'm always available for Ghana," he said with a big smile during his interview with the Pitchside Podcast hosted by Thierry Nyann.

This firm yet friendly response underlines the former Ashanti Gold defender's desire to represent his country on the global stage.

His dedication has not wavered, even as he approaches the twilight of his career without a professional contract.

Mensah and defensive dynamics under Otto Addo

Since Mensah's last appearance, management of the Black Stars has experimented with several defensive pairings to build a more robust backline.

Addo prefers a blend of physicality and ball-playing, utilising players like Daniel Amartey, Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Salisu, and Jerome Opoku.

Injuries and inconsistent form have occasionally opened the door to fringe players like Razak Simpson, Jonas Adjetey, and Nicholas Opoku, but the absence of a consistent defensive duo has created a tactical dilemma.

While Djiku remains one of the more trusted options, Addo’s preference for youthful energy and adaptability means veteran names like Mensah face an uphill battle for inclusion.

Could Jonathan Mensah return to Black Stars?

Despite being unattached for over three months, the 2009 U-20 World Cup winner is banking on his wealth of experience and leadership qualities to earn a new contract, and potentially a route back to the national team.

His status as a free agent could attract clubs looking to bolster their defensive ranks with a seasoned presence. Since making his debut against Uganda on May 31, 2009, Mensah has earned 70 caps, per Transfermarkt.

The defender has been praised for his aerial prowess, positioning and calmness under pressure - traits that remain valuable. However, Mensah's lack of recent playing time may ultimately count against him.

Meanwhile, per FIFA, Ghana is currently topping Group I in the CAF portion of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The final set of matches to determine who advances will take place in September and October this year.

Jonathan Mensah's MLS career

Jonathan Mensah last featured for New England Revolution in the MLS. The seasoned Ghanaian defender signed a one-year contract with the New England Revolution in January 2024, with an option for 2025, but his contract wasn't extended.

Prior to this, he had a notable tenure with Columbus Crew, where he captained the team and earned three consecutive Defender of the Year awards from 2018 to 2020. In the 2023 season, Mensah played for the San Jose Earthquakes, making 26 appearances and helping the team reach the postseason.

Otto Addo's selection criteria

Regarding national team selection, Jonathan Mensah still stands a chance back in the Black Stars as coach Otto Addo once said that player performance is the primary criterion for a place in his team, regardless of the league they play in.

In August 2024, Addo stated: "For me, it's not about Ghana Premier League or French league A or English Premier League or Bundesliga. It's about the players and we need the best players to reach our aim of qualifying for the AFCON."

This approach indicates that even unattached players like Mensah could be considered for selection if they demonstrate the requisite performance and commitment.​

Otto Addo makes Andre Ayew admission

YEN.com.gh previously reported that Black Stars coach Otto Addo opened up on why Andre Ayew was excluded from Ghana’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

While the veteran forward has been in fine form for French side Le Havre, the manager felt other players were ahead of the former captain in the pecking order.

Nomso Obiajuru was a contributing writer in this article

Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.

Source: YEN.com.gh