Who is Derrick Luckassen, Ghana’s new "Black Star"? | OneFootball

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The Dutch defender chooses the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Who is Derrick Luckassen, Ghana’s new "Black Star"?

At 30, Derrick Luckassen is set to launch his international career with Ghana, having long represented the Netherlands at youth level. Born on July 3, 1995, in Amsterdam to Ghanaian parents, the central defender has chosen to join the Black Stars just three months before the 2026 World Cup.

Trained at AZ Alkmaar, later played for PSV before experiencing several leagues in Germany, Belgium, Turkey, and Israel. Since July 2024, he has played for Pafos FC in the Cypriot top flight, where he has featured in 20 matches and scored 3 goals this season. With his height (1.88 m) and wealth of experience, he brings solidity and presence to the heart of the defense.

Ghana coach Otto Addo has named him in a 26-man squad for the friendlies against Austria (March 27) and Germany (March 30). Luckassen is among the newcomers in this squad, ready to make his mark alongside Patric Pfeiffer, Marvin Senaya, and Daniel Agyei.

This new chapter opens up big opportunities for Luckassen, who could play a key role in the 2026 World Cup group stage against England, Croatia, and Panama. Blending European experience with international ambition, he is shaping up to be a valuable asset for the Black Stars.