Barcelona summer signing chooses Belgium over Ghana after senior call-up plan | OneFootball

Barcelona wonderkid Jesse Bisiwu has found himself at the centre of an international battle, with Ghana attempting to convince the young winger to switch allegiances from Belgium.

The Ghana Football Association had been working for months and was even considering a direct route to the senior national team. 

But according to Mundo Deportivo, Ghana’s approach has not produced the outcome they wanted.

Bisiwu’s father has reportedly rejected the proposal, with the youngster set to continue his international journey with Belgium.

For now, the Barcelona prospect appears focused on following the pathway he has already built over several years.

Ghana moved early in bid to win Jesse Bisiwu

Bisiwu has already established a strong connection with Belgian football.

Jesse Bisiwu has decided to represent Belgium over Ghana. (Picture credit: x/@FCBarcelona)

The winger has represented Belgium at Under-15, Under-16, Under-17, Under-18 and Under-19 level, making a total of 25 appearances across those youth categories.

However, his family roots also make him eligible to represent Ghana, which prompted the Ghana Football Association to enter the picture. 

The African federation believes Bisiwu has the potential to become an important player for the Black Stars and has been in contact with his representatives for months.

Rather than waiting for the youngster to reach the senior stage naturally, Ghana were considering making a major statement by calling him directly into the first team.

The long-term objective was to have Bisiwu involved in their plans for the road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Bisiwu’s father rejects Ghana offer

According to the aforementioned outlet, though, Ghana’s efforts have now suffered a setback.

Jesse Bisiwu’s development at Barcelona will be closely followed. (Photo courtesy: FC Barcelona official website)

The report states that Bisiwu’s father rejected the approach, choosing instead for his son to continue representing Belgium.

That decision follows the path the winger has taken throughout his international development.

Having progressed through every major Belgian youth category from Under-15 to Under-19 level, Bisiwu is keen to continue working towards a future place in the senior national team.

At the same time, Belgium are also closely monitoring his progress, having been a regular at Under-19 level, and his performances for the Catalan club will be watched as he continues his development.

The Belgian senior setup is currently managed by former Barcelona player Mark van Bommel, another reason why Bisiwu’s performances at the club could receive close attention.