The LA Galaxy winger was unexpectedly excluded from Ghana’s final squad for the 2022 World Cup, despite his crucial contributions during the qualification campaign.

His absence from the squad raised many eyebrows, especially as he was leading in goals and assists at club level compared to his fellow Black Stars teammates.

In a recent interview with Joy Sports, the 26-year-old reflected on the experience, admitting his disappointment but emphasizing his commitment to earning a spot for the 2026 tournament, should Ghana qualify.

”It was strange and I was unhappy, but I always have to accept the decision of the Head Coach.

“There are millions of players who dream of playing for Ghana at the World Cup, but only 23 will make the cut.

“I was disappointed but my job is to keep focused and work hard. There are more World Cups ahead, and my hope is to be part of the squad for the next one if we are able to qualify,” he he added.

As the 2026 World Cup qualifiers continue, Ghana currently sits in second place with 9 points. The Black Stars will resume their campaign in March, facing Chad and Madagascar in Matchdays five and six.

Addo, 49, was reappointed on a three-year contract with an option for two additional years. However, he has come under intense pressure after failing to lead Ghana to qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 20 years.

The disappointing campaign led to widespread calls for his dismissal, but the Ghana Football Association (GFA) confirmed Addo would remain in charge while reinforcing the technical team.

Speaking in an interview, Kofi Adams, who represents the Buem constituency in Parliament, disclosed that he was not privy to the rationale behind the decision and was unaware if the government was consulted.

“The truth is that when the Executive Council took the decision, I was not named as the Sports Minister-designate, but after the announcement, I engaged some members in the transitional team in the area of sports, and they were not consulted on the decision to retain Otto Addo,” he told Sporty FM.

“I am yet to talk to the Chief Of Staff [Julius Debrah] since he was the first minister to be named, on whether there was any engagement with him at all.

“I have been told Kurt Okraku is not in town, but when he returns, we will discuss this issue, and I will need more answers to this decision,” he added.

Meanwhile, Winfried Schaffer has been appointed as the new technical advisor and football director for both the Black Stars and the GFA.

Desmond Offei, previously the head coach of Ghana’s U-20 team, has been promoted to the Black Stars’ technical bench as an assistant coach, replacing German coach Joseph Laumann. Offei will work alongside existing assistants John Paintsil and Fatawu Dauda.

Other additions to the backroom staff include Kris Perquy, who joins as the team psychologist, and Gregory De Grauwe, who will serve as the video analyst.

The senior national team’s technical team has been strengthened ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, set to resume in March, following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 20 years under Otto Addo’s leadership.

New additions to the technical staff include German coach Winfried Schaffer, who will take on the roles of technical advisor and football director for both the Black Stars and the GFA.

Desmond Offei, head coach of Ghana’s U20 team, has also been promoted to the Black Stars’ technical bench as an assistant coach, replacing German Joseph Laumann.

Offei will join existing assistants John Paintsil and Fatawu Dauda, who remain in their roles under Addo.

Kris Perquy will serve as the team’s psychologist, while Gregory De Grauwe will be the video analyst.

Despite these announcements, Mr. Adams stated in an interview that the appointments would be reviewed for various reasons.

“We will review the GFA’s new appointment onto the Black Stars technical team,” he told Sporty FM.

“This will be my first engagement with the GFA. Can we get a cheaper option than Winfried Schaffer? Can we pay him less, or does his contract allow for a review?

“We will look at all that,” he added.

Following Ghana’s failure to qualify for AFCON, Otto Addo, who signed a three-year deal with an option for an additional year, faced significant pressure.

However, the GFA’s Executive Council has opted to retain him as the head coach of the Black Stars.

Addo, 49, has come under scrutiny after failing to lead the national team to qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), marking the first time in 20 years that Ghana missed out on the tournament.

The team finished last in Group F with just three points, leading to calls for his dismissal.

Despite the criticism, the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) Executive Council has decided to keep Addo on as head coach.

The technical team has also been reinforced ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

However, in an interview with Sporty FM, Adams expressed concern over the uncertainty surrounding Addo’s future, emphasizing that the doubts are not only coming from fans but also from within the football community, including players and some GFA members.

“The future of Otto Addo is a matter of concern to me. This concern of stay or not stay is not just coming from the non-playing body—that is what is of great concern to me,” he said.

“Not just the fans, but the engagements I have had go beyond that to even the playing body and some members of the GFA (current and former).”

Adams, who was recently vetted by Parliament’s Appointments Committee, is expected to take the oath of office as Minister for Sports and Recreation in the coming days.

For the first time in 20 years, Ghana’s senior national football team will miss out on Africa’s premier football tournament, which will take place in Morocco later this year.

The Black Stars ended their qualifying campaign at the bottom of Group F with just three points from six matches.

In a statement following the team’s failure, the Member of Parliament for the Buem constituency expressed concern, emphasizing that it reflects poorly on the four-time African champions.

“It doesn’t speak well that the African continent will meet for a football competition and Ghana isn’t there,” he told Sporty FM.

Looking ahead, the Black Stars now shift their focus to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which will resume in March.

Ghana will face Chad and Madagascar in the upcoming Matchday five and six fixtures.

Addo, 49, who was reappointed on a three-year contract with an option for an additional two years, has faced heavy criticism after the Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), marking the first time in two decades that they have missed out.

The team’s poor performance, with three draws and three losses, saw them finish last in Group F with just three points. As a result, many have called for his departure.

However, the GFA has bolstered the Black Stars’ technical staff ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which will resume in March.

Despite the pressure to let Addo go, Oduro Sarfo, in an interview with Guide Radio, emphasized that they will not be swayed by public opinion.

“We will not allow anybody to put pressure on us to sack Otto Addo,” he said.

Meanwhile, German coach Winfried Schaffer has been appointed as the Black Stars’ technical advisor.

Additionally, Desmond Offei, the head coach of Ghana’s U20 team, has been promoted to the senior national team’s technical bench as an assistant coach, replacing German Joseph Laumann.

Offei will work alongside assistants John Paintsil and Fatawu Dauda, who will remain in their positions under Addo.

Kris Perquy will serve as the team’s psychologist, and Gregory De Grauwe will take on the role of video analyst.

His call for support comes after the national team failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, prompting the inclusion of expatriate coaches to strengthen the technical bench.

Among the new additions is German coach Winfried Anton Schäfer, a former AFCON winner with Cameroon in 2002, who has been appointed as the technical advisor. Additionally, Kris Perquy joins as the team’s psychologist, while Gregory De Grauwe takes on the role of senior video analyst.

Following these appointments, Okraku took to social media to make a passionate appeal for unity as the Black Stars turn their attention to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

“Let’s give our team our support. With the announcement of both the management committee of the Black Stars and a revamped technical team, it’s now our time to be truly Ghanaian and to get behind our team once again, with that singular ambition of bringing OUR team back to winning ways,” he wrote on social media.

“Ghana, our beloved country, has gone through this challenging period before, but by sticking together, we have always come out stronger.

“In humility, determination, and oneness, we have—and we will—bring smiles back to our people with your support. Let’s support our Black Stars with all our might. Our players need you! Our players need us. It is time!”

Meanwhile, Desmond Ofei, head coach of Ghana’s U-20 team, the Black Satellites, has been promoted to first-team assistant coach, replacing Joseph Laumann.

The Black Stars are set to regroup in March as they resume their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with crucial fixtures against Chad and Madagascar.

The GFA is facing significant criticism after the national team missed out on qualifying for Africa’s premier football competition.

Amid calls for Otto Addo’s dismissal due to the team’s winless campaign in the qualifiers, Asante Twum stated that the GFA will learn from this setback and focus on future success, including the upcoming AFCON editions.

“We have to pick useful lessons from our failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON tournament,” he assured during an interview with Sporty FM.

“We can only build on this disappointment and go into the next phase of our qualifiers in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and build on that, and hopefully, we will make it to the World Cup and turn things around in the next editions of the AFCON,” he added.

Ghana finished last in Group F with just three points, securing three draws and suffering three losses.

This marks the first time in 20 years that the four-time African champions have failed to qualify for the AFCON tournament.

Former Black Starlets head coach, Laryea Kingston, has voiced his frustration over Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

This marks the first time in two decades that the senior national team, coached by Otto Addo, will not compete in the prestigious tournament.

Ghana ended up in last place in Group F, earning just three points from three draws and three defeats during the qualifiers.

Ahead of the AFCON draw on Monday, Kingston, a former Ghana international, expressed his disappointment at the nation’s absence from the tournament.

“I am very disappointed that our beloved country Ghana did not qualify. One of the strongest countries in African football will not be participating in the AFCON in Morocco, and that is quite a disappointing moment for me,” he told Sporty FM.

Looking forward, the Black Stars will now turn their attention to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with upcoming matches against Chad and Madagascar set for March.

This comes after the dissolution of the previous committee, led by Mark Addo, following the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The GFA has now unveiled a new six-member committee to oversee the team’s future.

In an interview with Sporty FM, Asante Twum shared insights from the committee’s first meeting, revealing that they are determined to push for improved performance.

“There is a new Management Committee in place led by Dr. Randy Abbey, and they have decided to bring on board a former captain of the team, Stephen Appiah, who is an individual who single-handedly took us to our first World Cup in 2006.

“They have had their first meeting, and I am privy to the details of the meeting, and I know that a lot of things will change going forward. I know they will be very much demanding, and they will push for results. They have made that clear,” he added.

The revamped committee includes Dr. Randy Abbey as Chairman, with Stephen Appiah as Vice Chairman and Player Relations lead.

Other members are Samuel Aboabire, Chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Football Association and GFA Executive Council member, and Moses Armah, President of Medeama Sporting Club. Both Aboabire and Armah will oversee operations and matchday activities, ensuring sponsors’ and partners’ interests are met.

Additionally, Richard Nsenkyire, President of FC Samartex 1996, has been appointed to handle special duties as a member of the committee.

The 49-year-old former Borussia Dortmund assistant coach faced significant pressure after failing to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with many fans calling for his dismissal.

In an interview with Sporty FM, Asante Twum shared that the meeting where this decision was made was long and intense.

He described the atmosphere as tense, with members of the Council passionately expressing their views on the future of the technical team.

“It was a very tense atmosphere where the Council members espoused their feelings and positions on the future of the technical team. Not all of them said yes. It was very, very difficult. I sat there for hours and still, it got to the point where there was a stalemate, so the meeting had to be adjourned and reconvened again. It was tough.

“It was not just a straightforward decision that after hearing from him or listening to him, we want to say yes or we are all saying yes to his continuous stay in office or otherwise. It was very tough. The end product is that he will stay based on the council’s decision. But the factors that led to the decision were very, very tough,” Henry Asante Twum said.

Meanwhile, the Ghana FA has strengthened the technical team with the addition of Winfried Anton Schafer as the new Technical Advisor, Gregory De Grauwe as Video Analyst, and Kris Perquy as the new Team Psychologist.

Ghana, a four-time African champion, ended their qualification campaign at the bottom of Group F with only three points from six matches. The team recorded three draws and three losses.

Speaking after the final draw for the 2025 AFCON in Rabat on Monday, Asante Twum reflected on the disappointment, acknowledging that Ghana’s absence from the tournament felt bittersweet.

“After Mali 2002, Ghana missed out on the AFCON in 2004, and since then we have been ever-present, so to miss out this time is a mixed feeling,” he told Sporty FM.

“It is not a good feeling, especially when you have the likes of Botswana, Mozambique, and other countries all qualifying for the tournament.

“When the roll call was made yesterday and Ghana was not part, it was unbearable and very painful because of our pedigree, stature, and history on the continent and in the Africa Cup of Nations.

“At least, if for nothing at all, we have been dominant since 2008, but it is unfortunate that we could not make it this time around,” he added.

Although Ghana won’t be part of the AFCON in Morocco later this year, they will still compete in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with matches against Chad and Madagascar scheduled for March on the fifth and sixth matchdays.

For the first time in two decades, Ghana, a four-time AFCON champion, will not feature in the prestigious continental tournament after finishing last in Group F.

Their qualification campaign ended with three draws and three losses in six matches.

Tagoe, a former striker for Hearts of Oak, reflected on the team’s poor performance and acknowledged the disappointment surrounding their failure to qualify.

However, he emphasized the need for the team to regroup and focus on becoming stronger in the future.

“It is very sad because qualifying and playing at the AFCON is what every Ghanaian wants, and to an extent, the entire country. At every tournament, Ghana is always there, so if it happens that Ghana is not there, it is sad, but we have to prepare our minds and return stronger because we can do it,” he said on Sporty FM.

“It is hurting because everyone will be watching their country play, and Ghana is not there, so it is very sad,” he added.

While the Black Stars’ AFCON hopes were dashed, the team is now setting their sights on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which will resume in March with upcoming fixtures against Chad and Madagascar on Matchdays 5 and 6.

The Ghanaian international made the switch to England in 2023, signing a five-year contract with West Ham, with an option for an additional year, in a £38 million transfer from Ajax.

Kudus made an immediate impact in his debut season, netting 14 goals across all competitions as the Hammers secured a top-half league finish and advanced to the Europa League quarter-finals.

However, in the current campaign, the 24-year-old has found the net just three times in the Premier League.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the former FC Nordsjaelland star admitted the demands of English football are relentless.

“The Premier League is a very intense league,” he said.

“There’s lots of running and you need strength. You also need to be technical, and I believe I have all those attributes,” he added.

Kudus played in West Ham’s 1-1 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday. The Hammers will face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next Monday.

Joseph Laumann, a Moroccan-born German coach, was initially brought in to assist Otto Addo after the disbandment of Chris Hughton’s technical team following Ghana’s disappointing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in Ivory Coast.

However, Laumann’s tenure ended after the Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON tournament.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the GFA confirmed Ofei’s appointment as part of a revamped technical team led by head coach Otto Addo, with experienced German tactician Winfried Schäfer taking on the role of technical advisor.

“Coming on board as assistant to Otto Addo is the architect of Ghana’s resurgence at the male Under-20 level, Coach Desmond Ofei.

“The Africa Games gold medal-winning coach and Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Coach of the Year 2024, who has swiftly carved a niche for himself as an achiever, is expected to bring his expertise and deep analytical prowess to the team.”

Additionally, the GFA announced Gregory De Grauwe as the new chief video analyst and Kris Perquy as the team’s psychologist.

Desmond Ofei, a UEFA A (Level 4) Licensed Professional Coach, has an impressive résumé. He previously coached the U-18 and U-21 teams at Royal Antwerp FC and held similar roles at Lokeren and Lusitano SAD.

Ofei also serves as the head of high performance at the Technical Directorate and has accumulated coaching and scouting experience across Europe and Africa, including stints in Belgium, England, Holland, France, Portugal, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.

Ofei’s track record includes leading Ghana’s U-20 team, the Black Satellites, to win gold at the 2023 African Games and securing qualification for the 2025 Africa U20 Cup of Nations, set to take place in Ivory Coast from April to May.

He is expected to bring this wealth of experience and success to the senior national team.

The German tactician, who won the African Cup of Nations with Cameroon in 2002, will be expected to work closely with Head Coach Otto Addo to build a winsome Black Stars team.

Winfried Schafer assumes the role having excelled in a managerial career spanning a little over 40 years working with a number of National teams (Cameroon, Thailand and Jamaica) as well as European clubs including Borussia Monchengladbach, Karlsruher SC, VFB Stuttgart and Borussia Berlin.

One of Schafer’s most notable achievements is winning the African Cup of Nations with Cameroon in 2002.

Schafer has also coached in the United Arab Emirates, working with top clubs namely Al Ain, Al-Ahli Dubai, Baniyas and Al-Khor. His last coaching role was with Al Khor.

In his new role, Schafer will not only provide technical guidance but also oversee the development of football in Ghana as the Director of Football. This role will also require Schafer to, in conjunction with the Technical Directorate of the GFA, develop and implement long-term strategic plans for the Association, provide technical guidance in line with Ghana’s football philosophy, provide general leadership for youth development and ensure consistent high performance by teams.

His experience coaching at both club and national team level will undoubtedly be valuable in this position.

Winfried Schafer enjoyed a successful playing career spending seventeen seasons in the German League system playing a total of 438 matches and scoring 62 goals.

He played for Borussia Monchengladbach, Kickers Offenbach and Karlsruher SC.

It is anticipated that Schafer’s rich and diverse experience will bring great value to the Black Stars and the FA as the nation looks to seeing the resurgence of the team.

Kris Perquy is an accomplished Sports psychologist with a little over 17 years of experience working with professionals in Sports to enhance their psychological well-being.

He worked with the Belgian Football Association for 15 years, helping to professionalize their Football psychology offering for players and Coaches.

He developed a Coach Education program dubbed “Psychology for Football” which reached over 300 trainers. His work also saw him working as Lead psychologist for a project to support elite Referees in their preparation and recovery.

Kris Perquy was a member of the coaching staff for Belgium’s Olympic athletes supporting the team during training camps and has worked as a Mental Coach for professional football clubs such as KSV Cercle Brugge, RSC Anderlecht, Club Brugge and KV Oostende.

Perquy has also worked as a Performance psychologist for a global E-Sports organisation and a Mental Coach for Belgium’s national male and female Handball teams. He prepared top swimming talents for the Olympic Games as well.

Kris Perquy holds a Masters degree in Organisational Psychology from the University of Gent and a Certificate in brain-based coaching from the Neuroleadership Institute in London, United Kingdom.

He is the Founder of the International Network of Football Psychologists, an organisation that provides platforms for the sharing of best practices among mental coaches from the highest echelons of European Football.

With his depth of knowledge and expertise in the area of Sports Psychology, Kris Perquy co-authored “The Sport Brain”, a book on Sports Psychology, with Van Halewyck.

In appointing Kris Perquy, the Football Association is confident that the entire Black Stars team would have a top-notch professional in Sports Psychology to take care of the team’s needs in this regard.

Kris is also expected to design and implement training sessions for Coaches and Team psychologists of the various national teams as well as Football clubs in Ghana.

Holder of a UEFA License B Coaching license, qualifications in Performance Analysis and a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, Gregory comes into the role of Chief Video Analyst of the Black Stars having gained significant experience working with teams including STVV, Sporting Lokeren, K. Beerschot VA, SC Zulte Waregem and KV Kortruk.

De Grauwe has been a lecturer on Video Analysis under the Royal Belgian Football Association since December 2020.

Gregory De Grauwe’s training in Coaching (UEFA License B) gives him an added relevant perspective for the effective execution of his tasks as a Video Analyst.

He has about eight years of coaching experience working with a number of Belgian clubs.

His assumption of the role of Chief Video Analyst of the Black Stars is expected to greatly enhance the team’s performance as he provides vitally required support to the Coaches of the team.

For the first time in two decades, the senior national team will miss the AFCON, which will be held in Morocco later this year. The Black Stars finished bottom of Group F in the qualifiers, with three losses and three draws, earning just three points.

With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers set to resume in March, Raji, a former chairman of the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA), emphasized the importance of unity and support for the team moving forward.

He also called on Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku to spearhead efforts to unite everyone behind the Black Stars.

“Let’s all come together and rally behind the Black Stars despite whatever has happened in the past,” Raji told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“We have World Cup qualifiers to play, and we will only be able to qualify when we come together, and it must start from Kurt Okraku.”

Raji also stressed that while qualifying for the World Cup will be a tough challenge, it is achievable.

“Qualifying for the World Cup is a big task, but it is a doable task. Kurt Okraku must initiate the process to bring everyone together for that course of qualifying for the World Cup,” he added.

The Black Stars are set to face Chad and Madagascar in the upcoming Matchday 5 and 6 fixtures of the qualifiers.

READ ALSO

• Alhaji Raji defends Kurt Okraku’s leadership despite Black Stars’ struggles
• Otto Addo is not good enough to coach Black Stars – Alhaji Raji

Addo, who stepped down after Ghana’s early exit from the 2022 World Cup, was rehired in March 2024 on a three-year contract with a one-year extension option.

However, under his leadership, the Black Stars suffered a major setback by failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), marking the first time in two decades that Ghana has missed the tournament.

The team finished bottom of Group F with just three points from three draws and three defeats, a result that has raised concerns about Addo’s coaching abilities.

Despite these disappointing results, it is anticipated that Addo will continue in his role as the Black Stars coach.

Alhaji Raji, however, believes that the former Ghana international is not up to the task.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, he stated, “Otto Addo is not up to the task as Black Stars coach but he still remains the coach. People around him should advise him.”

Raji also criticized Addo’s approach, saying, “He is always demanding that the team should train behind closed doors, which does not work for me.”

Looking ahead, the Black Stars will seek redemption in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with key fixtures against Chad and Madagascar in March 2025.

His comments follow Ghana’s shocking failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in two decades.

The Black Stars finished at the bottom of Group F with just three points, having drawn three matches and lost three in six games.

When asked whether football in Ghana is in a poor state, the veteran football administrator insisted that the sport is not in bad shape overall but noted that the Black Stars’ inconsistency is the primary issue.

“I don’t think football in Ghana is generally bad. The only thing that is struggling is the Black Stars and other national teams,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“The Black Stars are struggling because of the inconsistencies. Every national team in the world has core and consistent players, but in the case of the Black Stars, it has always been different players.”

He emphasized that Otto Addo’s frequent changes in the squad have negatively impacted the team’s performance.

“Otto Addo keeps inviting different players in every call-up, which does not help the team, and that has been the problem for the Black Stars,” he added.

Despite mounting pressure on Otto Addo following the Black Stars’ AFCON failure, he is expected to retain his role.

Ghana’s next matches are scheduled for March, when the Black Stars will face Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Football in the West African nation is currently facing significant challenges, with both clubs and national teams struggling to perform on the international stage.

For the first time in two decades, the Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Similarly, the Black Galaxies missed out on a spot in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after losing a two-legged tie to Nigeria.

Akonnor, who captained the Black Stars in four AFCON tournaments, believes collective action is necessary to restore Ghana’s footballing glory.

“We need to rise up to the occasion because things are falling apart. We talk of the national team, which has not qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations,” the former Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak coach told Radio Gold Sports.

“But when was the last time any of our clubs qualified for the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League and the Confederation Cup and all that? We need to rise up to the occasion. We can transform things, we can change it, but we all have to get on board—not just the FA alone, all of us, especially you, the media.”

“You need to help change things so that we can see ourselves at the top again,” Akonnor added.

Ghana will now shift focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, which resume in March. The Black Stars will host Chad at home before traveling to face Madagascar.

Muntari, who briefly returned to the domestic league during the 2021/22 season, previously played for Liberty Professionals before embarking on a successful career in Europe.

During his time with Accra Hearts of Oak, he helped the team win the President’s Cup and the MTN FA Cup but chose not to renew his contract.

In an interview with 3Sports, the 40-year-old former Inter Milan and AC Milan star lamented the state of Ghana’s top-tier league.

“Hearts fans and the president were amazing,” Muntari, who won the Champions League in 2010, told 3Sports.

“The league is a big hole where they are dumping money. There is no future for the local league.”

“I am hoping I can get some funds and really help them. It’s a mess. When I was there, it was a mess. Maybe now it is worse. If we don’t help these guys, we won’t get the top players.”

Muntari also highlighted poor conditions in the league, including inadequate facilities.

“The changing rooms smell. That respect is not there. I didn’t even want my laundry done. I would take it home. When you get into changing rooms, they smell bad. It is not just one team; everybody,” Muntari, who played in the 2006, 2010, and 2014 World Cups in Germany, South Africa, and Brazil, added.

Muntari, who represented Ghana at three World Cups, voiced hope that he could secure funding to help improve the league.

Currently, the Ghana Premier League faces significant challenges, including the lack of a headline sponsor and broadcast rights holder.

Despite the Black Stars’ four AFCON titles, this will be the first time in two decades that Ghana will not participate in the tournament, which will be hosted in Morocco later this year.

After six qualifying matches, Ghana ended up at the bottom of Group F with just three points from three draws and three losses.

Kwakye Ofosu pointed out that the sharp decline in the national football scene has caused many Ghanaians to lose interest in sports.

“In the sporting arena, these days there is little to be enthused about as a Ghanaian sports fan. I support the Black Stars, but we failed to qualify for the AFCON tournament, and many Ghanaians have lost interest in what the national teams do,” he said on TV3.

He also shared that he feels disconnected from local clubs, stating, “These days, I claim I support Hearts of Oak, but I don’t even know one player of the club, nor do I know one player of Asante Kotoko because sports are essentially dead in this country. So even rekindling the public interest in sports to support national teams is a difficult task.”

The Black Stars are set to return to international competition in March when they face Chad and Madagascar in the final two World Cup qualifiers for 2026.

For the first time in two decades, Ghana, a four-time African champion, failed to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament, finishing at the bottom of Group F.

The Black Stars ended their qualifying campaign with three draws and three losses from six matches.

While many fans and pundits have pointed fingers at head coach Otto Addo for the team’s disappointing performance, Abdul Salam insists that the real fault lies with the GFA.

According to him, the association’s leadership has caused discontent within the football community, leading to the poor form of the national team.

“To me, Pep Guardiola is the best coach in the world, but he cannot handle the Black Stars. Otto Addo has done nothing wrong as coach of the national team,” he told Kessben FM.

He further criticized the state of Ghanaian football, pointing to deeper issues beyond the coaching staff.

“For our coach to celebrate an equalizing goal tells you our football has collapsed.

“Semenyo, Inaki, Kudus, and others are mature players. Otto Addo has nothing to teach them. Anyone can coach the Black Stars.”

He accused the GFA of fostering a toxic environment within Ghanaian football, claiming their actions have had a negative impact on the team’s performance.

“Otto Addo can’t be blamed for Black Stars AFCON qualification failure. We didn’t qualify because of evil leaders. They’ve really hurt people within the football fraternity. Their evil deeds are paying off,” he added.

Despite the disappointment, the Black Stars will have an opportunity to redeem themselves in March when they face Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

For the first time in 20 years, the Black Stars failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which is scheduled to take place in Morocco later this year.

Led by head coach Otto Addo, the team endured a disappointing campaign, finishing at the bottom of Group F with just three points from six games, following three draws and three losses.

Adding to the nation’s woes, the Black Galaxies, under coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, also missed out on the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Despite a goalless draw in the first leg against Nigeria’s Super Eagles B at the Accra Sports Stadium, the team succumbed to a 3-1 defeat in the return leg.

Speaking to Citi Sports, George Afriyie described these setbacks as deeply troubling, particularly Ghana’s absence from the 24-team AFCON tournament.

“We have the talent in this country; what we lack is identifying them, offering proper training and grooming, and creating opportunities. When you mention Ghana in global football, everyone recognizes us. We’ve been to the World Cup four times, and that alone is proof that Ghana is one of Africa’s football powerhouses,” he stated.

Afriyie expressed his disappointment over Ghana’s exclusion from Africa’s premier football competitions, emphasizing the need for urgent reforms.

“If 24 countries are participating in AFCON, and Ghana isn’t one of them, it’s a serious issue. If CHAN is happening, and Ghana isn’t competing among the best, it’s worrying. The same applies to the U-17 African Championships and the African Women’s Championships—we cannot ignore this downward trend.

“We must admit that something is wrong. Acknowledging the problem is the first step toward finding solutions. Unfortunately, those entrusted with managing football in this country don’t seem to view it this way, and that is deeply concerning,” Afriyie added.

The Black Stars will regroup in March to face Chad and Madagascar in two crucial qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Under the leadership of Mustapha Ussif during the NPP government, the Sports Ministry faced criticism for prioritizing the Black Stars while sidelining other sports.

Addressing this concern, Adams, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for the Buem Constituency, emphasized the importance of a more inclusive approach.

In an interview with GHOne TV, he acknowledged the cultural and emotional significance of the Black Stars to Ghanaians but stressed the need to give equal attention to other sports.

“Sports is not football; sports is not just the Black Stars. Sports go beyond football, and football should go beyond the Black Stars. But, of course, the Black Stars are the ultimate. We want to see our Black Stars back again,” he said.

“Black Stars have their management, Black Queens have their management, and badminton has its management… As a sports minister, you are responsible for all of these federations; you are not only responsible for the Black Stars.”

“But whatever leadership you must offer to the other federations and associations to make sure that each and every one of them succeeds, I will do so.”

Adams highlighted that his leadership would extend to all sports federations, from football to badminton, and promised to foster success across the board.

He also reassured Ghanaians that football, the nation’s favorite sport, would not be overlooked.

“I know that football is the nation’s love, and so you don’t reduce your attention on what the nation loves, but you develop all other sports because everything must be developed holistically,” he added.

The 49-year-old nominee is set to undergo vetting before potentially replacing Mustapha Ussif, who served as Sports Minister since 2021 under the Nana Akufo-Addo administration.

On January 18, 2025, the GFA announced the formation of the new committee after dissolving the previous one, led by Mark Addo, following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). According to the GFA’s statement, Appiah, who captained Ghana to its first World Cup in 2006, has been appointed Vice Chairman of the committee, with a focus on player relations.

However, Ahinful has raised concerns about the vagueness of the “player relations” aspect of Appiah’s role.

Speaking to Sporty FM, he said, “I think that the GFA must explain further what they mean by player relations because the best relations are when the coach interacts with the players daily to know how they are doing.”

He added, “I believe they have noticed something within the team, so they need somebody like Stephen Appiah to come on board and have that interaction with the players in a brotherly way to bring the players in line and help them understand how the GFA wants things to be done.”

The newly formed Black Stars Management Committee also includes Dr. Randy Abbey as Chairman, responsible for leading engagement with the government and other stakeholders.

Samuel Aboabire, Chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Football Association and member of the GFA Executive Council, along with Moses Armah, President of Medeama Sporting Club, will oversee operations and matchday activities, ensuring smooth management of sponsor, partner, and collaborator relations. Richard Nsenkyire, President of FC Samartex 1996, will handle special duties within the committee.

His remarks come after the reformation of the Black Stars’ Management Committee, following the team’s failure to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The newly appointed committee includes Dr. Randy Abbey as Chairman, Stephen Appiah as Vice Chairman, and Moses Armah, Richard Nsenkyire, and Samuel Aboabire as members.

Pappoe emphasized that while the names are significant, the committee’s success will depend on their commitment to the role.

“A well-functioning Management Committee is essential for the running of our football or national teams, but if the members are not committed, they will be there only in name,” Pappoe said in an interview with Sporty FM.

He further explained that the committee’s responsibilities encompass organizing, planning, preparing, managing camping and accommodation, providing counsel, and supporting the technical team.

“The duties of the Management Committee include organization, planning, preparation, camping, accommodation, counseling, and support for the technical team,” he added.

After their AFCON setback, the Black Stars will resume action in March, with World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Madagascar.

Baidoo, who came close to joining English side Plymouth last summer, saw his potential move delayed due to Elfsborg’s impressive run in the Europa League.

This season, the 24-year-old scored five goals in the group stage, including a decisive penalty in a historic 1-0 win over Italian giants Roma at the Stadio Olimpico. Notably, Baidoo also captained Elfsborg during the match.

“That was a great moment. That’s my best football moment,” he told BBC World News.

“Playing against Roma, being the captain, being the match-winner, it was a huge one for the whole of Sweden.

“To put the club on the map again, it was a huge one,” he added.

Baidoo also credited former Ghana and Chelsea star Michael Essien for providing him with valuable advice early in his career.

“Stay humble and keep working hard because you don’t see it but people do see it,” Baidoo said.

“If people will see it, I have to keep working hard, and in the end, it will pay off – that’s what he did.

“He was humble and kept working hard, and he’s a legend now,” he added.

Baidoo has made 76 appearances and scored 23 goals before joining Plymouth Argyle in a club record deal.

Ahinful’s proposal follows the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) announcement of a new Management Committee for the Black Stars, after the previous committee, headed by Mark Addo, was dissolved.

The dissolution came after the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In an interview with Sporty FM, Ahinful, a former Black Stars striker, raised concerns about the purpose and efficiency of the Management Committees.

He proposed that a National Management Board, composed of a broader group of individuals—not limited to football experts—would be better positioned to make informed decisions for the teams.

“I have served on a Management Committee before, and I feel it will be better to have a National Management Board. That should not have only football people, who will always come on board and look at the affairs of the various national teams we have.”

Ahinful further explained that such a board could delegate responsibilities efficiently. “Assuming we have 10 people on the National Management Board and the Black Stars will be engaged in a game, two people could be delegated to take charge of that game. It will be fine because there are employees also at the GFA who can also work.”

He also criticized the inefficiency of some committee members. “There are a lot of people serving on committees who are not doing anything. I have served on a committee, and it happened that some members did not even know the age bracket of the players who were invited. I had to inform the committee that these players who have been invited cannot play for the Black Satellites.”

“So if these management committees are that important, they should be checking and advising the technical team of the national teams,” he added.

The new Management Committee for the Black Stars includes Dr. Randy Abbey, a GFA Executive Council member, who will chair the Committee and liaise with the government and other stakeholders. Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah will serve as Vice-Chairman, focusing on player relations. The committee also includes Samuel Aboabire, Chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Football Association, Moses Armah, President of Medeama Sporting Club, and Richard Nsenkyire, President of FC Samartex 1996, with each member tasked with specific operational, matchday, and special duties.

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Dr. Randy Abbey, a member of the GFA Executive Council, has been appointed Chairperson of the committee. He will be responsible for leading interactions with the government and other key stakeholders.

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah will serve as Vice-Chairperson, focusing primarily on player relations.

Other members of the committee include Mr. Samuel Aboabire, Chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Football Association and GFA Executive Council member, and Mr. Moses Armah, President of Medeama Sporting Club.

Aboabire and Armah will oversee operations and matchday activities, ensuring that the interests of sponsors, partners, and collaborators are well-managed. Additionally, Mr. Richard Nsenkyire, President of FC Samartex 1996, is also part of the committee.

The GFA believes that the new team brings a wealth of expertise and experience that will aid the Black Stars as they prepare for the resumption of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Following a disappointing campaign in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, the Black Stars are focused on bouncing back.

They will face Chad and Madagascar in key fixtures in March, with hopes of a much-improved performance.

The announcement of the revamped committee follows the dissolution of the previous one led by Mark Addo.

The GFA unveiled the members today, January 18, naming Dr. Randy Abbey as Chairman and former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah as Vice Chairman.

The committee also includes Samuel Aboabire, chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Football Association; Moses Armah-Parker, President of Medeama SC; and Dr. Richard Nsenkyire, president of FC Samartex.

Commenting on the development, Mr Okraku said, “We are excited to announce the formation of this new Management Committee, which brings together a team of experienced and dedicated individuals who are passionate about Ghana football.

“We are confident that they will work tirelessly to support the Black Stars and ensure their success,” he added.

This reorganization comes as part of efforts to bolster the Black Stars’ preparations for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The team is determined to bounce back following a disappointing campaign in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

With crucial matches against Chad and Madagascar scheduled for March, Ghana currently holds the second spot in Group I with nine points after four games.

The team remains focused on securing improved performances and results in the coming fixtures.

The 21-year-old has been linked with a potential move to Goodison Park during the January transfer window.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday ahead of their match against Tottenham Hotspur, Moyes addressed the rumours, saying, “He’s a player that I know we’ve been looking at, but I couldn’t say for sure that it’s done or even underway unless there’s something happening that I’m unaware of.

“We’re considering several players, and Ernest Nuamah is one of them. Hopefully, we can make some signings before the window closes,” he added,” he added.

Everton’s pursuit of Nuamah underlines their determination to strengthen their squad as they aim to improve their standing in the Premier League.

Nuamah has endured a slow start to the season at Lyon, making only 18 appearances.

However, the Ghana international showcased his potential last season, recording four goals and three assists in 51 appearances for the French side.

The 49-year-old coach is facing an uncertain future after failing to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), marking the first time in 20 years that the Black Stars have missed out on the tournament.

After six matches in the qualifiers, Ghana suffered three losses and three draws, finishing at the bottom of Group F with just three points.

In 2024, the Black Stars managed only two wins from 10 games.

Following this disappointing performance, there have been growing calls for Addo’s dismissal as head coach.

Although Addo had presented his technical report to the Executive Council, Asante Twum stated that no final decision has been made yet.

“To be honest, the very day Otto Addo presented his report, the Executive Council held about a seven-hour meeting, and all the members of the Council, except Kwesi Appiah, made their views known,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“The areas of concern, including player management, tactics, and call-ups, were all discussed, but I cannot read the body language of everybody and say they want him [Otto Addo] to stay or go. What I know is that there was no decision made.”

“What I know is that a decision will be made at the next Executive Council meeting,” he added.

Addo, who took over from Chris Hughton, was reappointed in March 2024 on a three-year contract with a two-year extension option.

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His call comes after the Black Stars’ disappointing failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the first time in 20 years the team has missed out on the tournament.

Ghana finished bottom of Group F with just three points from three draws and three losses.

With the World Cup qualifiers resuming in March, Pappoe stressed the significance of qualifying for the tournament, saying that missing out on the World Cup would be far more detrimental to the nation.

“Qualifying for the 2026 World Cup should be our top priority. It would be far more expensive not to qualify,” he remarked during an interview with Original FM.

Currently, after four matches, Ghana is second in Group I, tied with leaders Comoros on nine points.

The Black Stars will face Chad and Madagascar in their upcoming fixtures for Matchday five and six.

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Reports suggest that assistant coaches John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann could be shown the exit as part of efforts to restructure the team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which are set to resume in March.

In an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Asante Twum acknowledged that adjustments will be made but stopped short of naming specific individuals.

“At the last Executive Council meeting, it was a subject that was thoroughly discussed, and a number of suggestions came up. Aside from the head coach [Otto Addo], the input and contributions of the assistant coaches were discussed since they came on board in March last year.

“All the work of the backroom staff was analyzed and discussed, and eventually, it was decided that some changes would be made. But specifically, I cannot confirm who will leave. Three people were given a task to return to the Executive Council with certain recommendations.”

He emphasized the urgency of the decision, saying, “A decision was made to bring changes to the technical team, but in terms of the personalities, I cannot confirm. The decision will be made very soon because there is no time for the team, as we are playing World Cup qualifiers in March. So, if you are bringing in new faces, that has to be done on time so they can settle down before the next phase of the qualifiers.”

Under head coach Otto Addo, assisted by John Paintsil, Joseph Laumann, and Fatau Dauda, the Black Stars endured a disappointing campaign, failing to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in two decades.

The team managed three defeats and three draws in six qualifying games.

John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann joined the technical team in March 2024, replacing George Boateng and Didi Dramani as assistant coaches.

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This marks the first time in 21 years that the Black Stars have missed out on AFCON qualification.

Under Addo’s leadership, the team endured a winless campaign, finishing with no victories in six matches, which concluded in November 2024.

Reports suggest that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) is contemplating changes to the coaching staff, including potentially dismissing assistant coaches Joseph Laumann and John Paintsil while retaining Addo.

However, Gargo believes the head coach should bear ultimate responsibility for the team’s historic setback.

Speaking to Citi Sports, Gargo emphasized that accountability starts at the top.

“Whenever a team or any football team wants to dismiss the technical team, I think it starts with the head coach because you are responsible for what is happening,” he said.

“You give instructions to your assistants for them to carry out the tasks of the day, whether it’s the training session, the preparation, or otherwise.”

He added that keeping Addo while replacing the assistants would not address the root of the problem.

“So I think if that is going to happen, then the entire technical team must go so they can bring in a new team that could possibly do better. But not sack the assistants and leave the head coach.”

“Because as I’m saying, in some of his post-match interviews, he took responsibility for everything that happened,” he added.

The GFA is reportedly planning to appoint two new assistant coaches to support Addo as the Black Stars prepare for critical 2026 World Cup qualifiers starting in March.

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This marks the first time in 20 years that the senior national team has failed to qualify, finishing bottom of Group F with only three points from six matches.

In an interview, Aboabire, who also serves as the Greater Accra Regional FA chairman, expressed his frustration with the team’s inability to find the back of the net.

“The Black Stars’ inability to score simple goals contributed to our failure to qualify for the AFCON,” Aboabire told Amansan TV.

“These same players score difficult goals for their clubs in Europe. I hope that when they return for the World Cup qualifiers, they will deliver the goals we need,” he added.

With the AFCON qualification campaign now behind them, Ghana’s focus will shift to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where they will face Chad and Madagascar in March later this year.

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Addo, who was appointed in March 2024 on a three-year contract, has faced intense criticism after failing to lead the national team to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)—a failure not seen in two decades.

After six qualifying matches, the Black Stars were winless, finishing last in Group F with just three points.

Throughout the past football calendar year, the senior team managed only two victories in 14 games, with Addo overseeing 10 of those matches.

Nyantakyi, the former CAF 1st Vice President, pointed out that these results indicate Addo’s inability to meet expectations.

“With the performance of the Black Stars under Otto Addo, everything shows that he is not doing well,” he told Asempa FM’s Sports Nite.

“The last time Ghana failed to qualify for an AFCON tournament was twenty years ago and under Otto Addo, we did not qualify so he has not performed.”

While Nyantakyi refrained from directly calling for Addo’s dismissal, he emphasized that the results speak for themselves.

“I am not in the position to say he has to be sacked or stay but the numbers are there for all of us to see,” he added.

The GFA has yet to make a decision regarding Addo’s future following the team’s AFCON failure.

However, the Black Stars are set to reconvene in March for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

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Under the current administration, led by Kurt Okraku, Ghanaian football has struggled to replicate its past successes.

The senior national team, the Black Stars, has faced significant setbacks in recent years, including back-to-back group-stage eliminations at the 2021 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments—a first in the nation’s history.

Adding to the disappointment, the Black Stars failed to qualify for the upcoming 2025 AFCON in Morocco, further intensifying criticism from fans and stakeholders.

Reflecting on these issues, Nyantakyi expressed his concerns during an interview with Asempa FM’s Sports Nite, acknowledging the steep decline in Ghana football’s fortunes.

“I believe all is not well with our football. During my administration, we were often reaching the semifinals or finals, yet there was criticism that it wasn’t good enough,” the former CAF 1st vice president said.

“They said playing in the semifinals was a financial loss to the country.

“But now, we have failed to progress beyond the group stage in the last two editions of the AFCON and have even failed to qualify this time. It clearly shows there is something wrong with our game, and it must be fixed.

“If the problem lies with the technical team, the Football Association, or the management team, it must be addressed,” he added.

The challenges were also evident during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where the Black Stars exited in the group phase.

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This possible reshuffle follows widespread criticism of the technical team, led by head coach Otto Addo, after Ghana failed to secure qualification for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Reports suggest the GFA has already initiated discussions with a Belgian and a Serbian coach as potential replacements for Paintsil and Laumann.

This move is part of a broader effort to overhaul the coaching staff and rebuild confidence ahead of the critical 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar in March.

Ghana’s failure to qualify for AFCON for the first time in 20 years has sparked outrage among fans, many of whom are calling for Otto Addo’s dismissal.

While Addo’s future remains uncertain, it is unclear whether Paintsil and Laumann will remain in their roles as the qualifiers approach. If dismissed, their departure would mark a significant change in the Black Stars’ technical setup.

Both coaches were appointed to replace George Boateng and Didi Dramani in the assistant roles, but their tenure now hangs in the balance as fans and officials await further developments.

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