The Ghana Football Association has clarified the reasoning behind the appointment of Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars, describing the veteran tactician as the standout candidate among several high-profile contenders.
The 72-year-old Portuguese manager has been handed a short-term contract to lead Ghana into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, replacing Otto Addo, who was dismissed following a string of inconsistent performances despite securing qualification for the tournament.
Several notable names, including Pitso Mosimane, Kwesi Appiah, and Paulo Bento, were reportedly considered before the GFA settled on Queiroz.
Speaking to Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum revealed that Queiroz’s detailed technical assessment of the national team played a decisive role in his appointment.
According to Asante Twum, the former Real Madrid coach demonstrated deep insight into the Black Stars’ recent struggles, including their failed Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign, while also showing a clear understanding of the squad’s strengths and player profiles.
“Carlos Queiroz provided a detailed analysis of his observations of the Black Stars, from their AFCON qualification failure to World Cup qualification,” he said.
He added that Queiroz also presented a comprehensive roadmap on how he intends to guide the team beyond the group stage at the World Cup.
The experienced coach is expected to take charge of the team next month when Ghana faces Mexico in an international friendly, before wrapping up preparations with a final pre-tournament clash against Wales on June 2.
Ghana, gearing up for its fifth World Cup appearance, has been drawn in Group L of the tournament, which will be staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Black Stars will begin their campaign against Panama on June 17, followed by matches against England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
Having suffered group-stage exits in their last two appearances in 2014 and 2022, Queiroz will be tasked with guiding Ghana to a stronger showing on the global stage.
