The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has defended its decision to expand the Black Stars’ technical team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
On January 6, the GFA announced several key appointments, including Alain Ravera and Kim Lars Bjorkegren as assistant coaches, Jose Daniel Martinez Alfonso as scout and video analyst, Carlos Lozano Romero as team physiotherapist, and Dwayne Peasah Paa Kwesi as performance coach.
Communications Director Henry Asante Twum said the move is aimed at enhancing the team’s competitiveness and ensuring a robust technical framework as Ghana prepares for the tournament, which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Addressing criticism that the additions represent a misuse of funds, Asante Twum insisted the appointments were based on quality and expertise, not quantity.
“When you compare the coaches we have assembled with those of other countries, ours are even fewer in number. This is not about increasing the headcount, but about ensuring we put forward the very best to compete at the highest level,” he told Akoma FM.
He described the backlash as unfortunate, stressing that the GFA’s priority is strengthening the national team.
“It is unfortunate for anyone to describe this as a waste of money. That has never been the goal of the FA, and in time, everyone will testify to the impact these additions will have on our progress,” Asante Twum added.
He also emphasized that Ghana’s ambitions on the global stage require the right technical guidance and experience.
“Our goal at the World Cup is to make an impact, and we can only achieve that with the best expertise guiding us. We believe these coaches will take us where we want to be,” he stated.
The Black Stars have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia. Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, 2026, before facing England on June 23 and concluding the group stage against Croatia on June 27.
Ahead of the tournament, head coach Otto Addo and his squad are expected to regroup in March for international friendlies against Austria and Germany as part of their preparations.
