Former Ghana official wants FIFA rule for 10-minute World Cup appearances

Every player named in a World Cup squad should be given at least 10 minutes on the field, former Ghana Olympic Committee Youth Coordinator Emmanuel Olla Williams has said. He wants FIFA to punish teams that fail to use all their registered players during the tournament.

Williams said selection for the World Cup carries enormous importance for footballers, making it especially damaging when a squad member remains unused. In his view, a player who receives the call-up but never enters a match can suffer a serious psychological setback after missing what may be the biggest opportunity of his career.

He cited Kobby Mainoo as an example of a player selected for the tournament but not used. Williams also referred to Cole Palmer, describing him as a leading player who was left out and did not make an appearance. He questioned the value of taking players to a major competition if they are not allowed to show their ability.

The former youth coordinator said Ghana also failed to use some of its squad members, including Abdul Mumin. He argued that coaches should give all selected players the chance to display their talent and technical qualities, rather than limiting tournament participation to a smaller group.

Williams, who leads Dreamland Sports Plus and the One On One Foundation, said World Cup organisation needed further improvement. He nevertheless praised the 2026 edition, which he said Spain deservedly won.

His assessment of Ghana was more critical. Williams felt the Black Stars were excessively defensive and lacked enough forward play and creative players. He said the team fell below expectations and needed to be revamped, adding that some members of the squad did not merit their places.