Veteran Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz has been appointed head coach of the Black Stars on a short-term contract, with the mandate to lead the Black Stars to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Ghana Football Association confirmed the appointment, naming the former Egypt boss as successor to Otto Addo, who was dismissed in March after consecutive friendly defeats to Austria and Germany.
Queiroz’s appointment, approved by the GFA Executive Council following consultations with key stakeholders, brings to a close weeks of uncertainty surrounding the team’s technical direction.
The 73-year-old arrives with a wealth of experience at both club and international levels, having previously handled top sides including Real Madrid and Manchester United. On the international stage, he has managed Portugal, Iran, Egypt, Oman, Japan and Qatar.
His World Cup pedigree remains one of his strongest credentials. Queiroz guided Portugal to the Round of 16 at the 2010 tournament, led Iran in the 2014 and 2018 editions, and also played a role in South Africa’s qualification for the 2002 finals.
He takes over at a pivotal time, with preparations for the global showpiece already underway. Immediate priorities include assessing the playing squad, assembling his technical backroom staff and shaping the team’s overall tournament strategy.
Queiroz is expected to meet the squad next month when they regroup for an international friendly against Mexico, before concluding their pre-tournament schedule with a clash against Wales on June 2.
Ghana, preparing for its fifth FIFA World Cup appearance, has been drawn in Group L of the tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
Following underwhelming outings at the 2014 and 2022 World Cups in Brazil and Qatar, Queiroz will be tasked with steering Ghana to a more competitive showing on football’s biggest stage.
