Sports Ministry and GFA must take time over Black Stars coaching appointment, says Nana Fitz

Ghana are searching for a new coach following the departure of Portuguese trainer Carlos Queiroz after the team’s disappointing start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The GFA and the Sports Ministry have set up a five-member committee to identify and recommend a suitable candidate for the vacant position.

An interim technical team is expected to oversee Ghana’s back-to-back qualifying matches against Somalia next month, with the appointment of a substantive head coach expected to follow.

However, Barkers Woode has cautioned the football authorities against rushing the recruitment process, insisting that the next appointment must be guided by a clear understanding of Ghanaian football and its challenges.

Speaking to Graphic Sports, the veteran administrator said the GFA should prioritise a coach who understands the local football environment, the country’s playing philosophy and the conditions surrounding the national team.

He believes such familiarity would be crucial in helping the new coach settle quickly and deliver the results Ghana need.

The GFA has announced that the deadline for applications for the vacant position is 15 October.

The coaching search comes at a challenging time for the Black Stars, who have lost their opening two matches in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

Ghana began their campaign with a 2-0 defeat away to Ivory Coast before suffering a 4-2 loss to The Gambia in Accra, despite taking a two-goal lead.

Those results have left the four-time African champions bottom of Group C without a point, increasing the pressure on the team to turn their campaign around.

Ghana, who missed the previous edition of the tournament in Morocco, face an uphill task to secure qualification for the 2027 finals.

Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet