Joseph Paintsil expresses willingness to return to Europe if the right opportunity arises

Joseph Paintsil, the forward for Ghana’s Black Stars, has expressed his willingness to consider a return to European football should the right opportunity present itself. Currently excelling in Major League Soccer (MLS) with LA Galaxy, following his transfer from Belgian club KRC Genk, Paintsil has had an impressive debut season. He was instrumental in helping his team secure the MLS Cup, further establishing his presence in the competitive American football scene.
While Paintsil is thriving in MLS, he has made it clear that his time in the United States is not a permanent commitment and that he is open to a potential move back to Europe, provided the circumstances are favorable. “If there is an opportunity, I would [return to Europe], but I must always make the best decision for myself,” Paintsil shared. This statement reflects his careful approach to his career, ensuring that any decision made is in his best interest for personal and professional growth.
Looking back on his MLS experience, Paintsil acknowledges that the league has grown significantly, and its quality of play has improved over the years. He described the MLS as “really serious” and noted that it has made a considerable impact on the global football stage. The presence of renowned footballers like Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Olivier Giroud, who have joined the league in recent years, has contributed to raising the profile of the competition. According to Paintsil, the inclusion of such star players only adds to the MLS’s appeal, making it an even more attractive destination for players and fans alike.
Since his arrival at LA Galaxy, the 26-year-old has played 34 matches, scoring 14 goals and registering 8 assists. His stellar performances on the pitch have helped solidify his position as a key player for the club, and he has become an essential part of their attacking line. Paintsil’s ability to perform at a high level in the MLS has undoubtedly opened doors for further opportunities, both in the league and potentially back in Europe.
Though he is clearly making an impact in MLS, Paintsil remains open to the idea of returning to Europe, where he previously played in Belgium’s top-tier football league. A move back to the European top flight would offer him the chance to compete at the highest levels of football once again, and he would embrace the challenge of playing in one of Europe’s top leagues. His desire for continued development as a player and the potential to test himself against some of the best in the world are motivating factors for considering a return to Europe in the future.
In addition to his club ambitions, Paintsil is focused on representing Ghana at the international level. He is determined to help the Black Stars qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which remains one of the team’s primary goals. The team’s recent failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, marking the first time in two decades that Ghana has missed out on the tournament, has fueled Paintsil’s commitment to ensuring that the Black Stars bounce back and secure a spot in the next World Cup.
Despite setbacks with the national team, Paintsil remains committed to both his individual success and his duty to the Black Stars. He hopes to continue playing a pivotal role in Ghana’s quest for qualification, using his performances at the club level to bolster his chances of being called up to the national team. The forward’s progress in the MLS and his desire to challenge himself in Europe illustrate his ambition and determination to reach the highest levels of football, both at the club and international stages.
As Joseph Paintsil continues to impress in the MLS, the prospect of a return to Europe will likely remain a possibility, and he will undoubtedly continue to be an exciting player to watch in the coming years. His drive for improvement, combined with his performances at LA Galaxy, keeps him in the spotlight as one of Ghana’s most promising football talents.