As Ghana’s Black Stars prepare for their fifth FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026 (co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico), a major leak of the Puma-designed home jersey has taken social media by storm in early January 2026.

The leaked design draws inspiration from Ghanaian folklore, specifically the legend of Anansi the Spider – the clever trickster who, according to Akan mythology, brought wisdom and the art of weaving to humanity.

This ties directly to the origins of traditional Kente cloth, with the kit incorporating subtle spider-web-like motifs and geometric patterns reminiscent of Kente weaving.

Mohammed Kudus rocking the new kit 

Key features of the leaked home kit:

• Predominantly white base (traditional for Ghana’s home jerseys).
• Bold accents in red, yellow, green, and black, reflecting the national flag.
• Intricate spider-inspired graphic patterns across the front, symbolizing creativity, resilience, and cultural heritage.
• Puma branding and the Ghana FA crest with the iconic black star.

The away kit, leaked earlier in late 2025, features a vibrant yellow/gold base inspired by Accra’s bustling Makola Market, with energetic abstract patterns capturing the market’s hustle and community spirit.

Neither Puma nor the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially confirmed the designs yet, but the leaks – circulating widely on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and kit specialist sites – have generated massive buzz. Fans praise the cultural depth, with many calling the spider motifs a “genius nod to Anansi” and a fresh evolution from previous kits.

Official releases for Puma’s 2026 World Cup kits are expected in waves throughout early 2026, building anticipation as the Black Stars aim to make history on the global stage.

Kevin-Prince Boateng opened up in an interview about his long-strained relationship with his half-brother Jerome Boateng. The former Ghana international admitted that jealousy played a significant role in their rift.

Key Quotes from Kevin-Prince

He explained that their issues date back to childhood due to opposing personalities:

“We never had a good relationship because we were very opposite, like he was very competitive over me. Then I saw him become a superstar, and I always felt that he didn’t deserve it because I was the one taking bad steps; he could follow me and avoid the bad steps, so I made the pathway for him. I was bitter about it.”

Despite apologizing to Jerome for those feelings, Kevin-Prince noted:

“I went to ask him for forgiveness as well… but we still don’t have a connection.”

Background on the Brothers

The brothers (half-brothers sharing the same Ghanaian father but different German mothers) have had a complicated history. They famously faced each other in the 2010 and 2014 World Cups (Kevin-Prince for Ghana, Jerome for Germany), and past tensions included the 2010 Michael Ballack injury incident.

Kevin-Prince previously distanced himself publicly from Jerome over domestic violence allegations in the early 2020s. This latest revelation (from mid-December 2025) highlights how their contrasting careers—Jerome’s trophy-laden path with Bayern Munich and Germany vs. Kevin-Prince’s more nomadic journey—fueled resentment.

Following Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Everton on December 13, 2025, Enzo Maresca unexpectedly described the preceding 48 hours as his “worst” since joining the club, citing a lack of “support” for himself, his players, and staff from “many people” (in general).

He explicitly ruled out the fans and media as targets, stating he “loves the fans” and is “very happy with them.” This unprompted outburst sparked widespread speculation of internal tensions with the board or hierarchy, especially after a four-game winless run. In his follow-up press conference on December 15 (ahead of the Carabao Cup tie vs. Cardiff), Maresca remained cryptic, offering little clarification beyond reaffirming his commitment (“absolutely, yes”) and respect for opinions, while focusing on upcoming games.

Southgate Rumors

Media reports (e.g., Daily Express, Mirror) have listed Southgate—unemployed since leaving England post-Euro 2024—as a contingency option if Maresca departs or is sacked. Other speculated names include Zinedine Zidane, Frank Lampard, Brendan Rodgers, Erik ten Hag, Andoni Iraola, and Liam Rosenior. However, no immediate change is expected; club sources describe Maresca’s comments as an “emotional reaction,” and he retains backing for now.

Fan Reaction

Chelsea supporters on socials and forums have overwhelmingly opposed the Southgate link:

• Many view it as a downgrade, preferring to stick with Maresca despite frustrations.
• Common sentiments: “Southgate at Chelsea? No way!” / “Bancar Maresca even if he plays Palmer in goal to avoid Southgate” / “If Southgate replaces Maresca, I’m done supporting.”
• Fans criticize Southgate’s defensive style and lack of recent club experience (last PL job: Middlesbrough, 2009).
• Trending posts highlight panic over the rumor, with calls to back Maresca or pursue more ambitious targets.

This backlash aligns with broader fan discontent toward ownership decisions, amplifying rejection of a “safe” but uninspiring appointment like Southgate. The story remains fluid, with no confirmed rift or imminent managerial change as of December 15, 2025.