By Kwame Bediako
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has begun the search for a new Black Stars head coach following the dismissal of Otto Addo, with multiple candidates in the mix as the team gears up for the 2026 World Cup.
Addo’s exit leaves a void at the helm, prompting the FA to act swiftly ahead of crucial friendlies and the tournament proper.
Leading the shortlist is Kwesi Appiah, currently steering Sudan to impressive results in North African football. The former Black Stars boss, whose existing contract complicates matters, could be tempted by the chance to lead Ghana on the global stage.
Appiah’s familiarity with the national team, he’s handled it in two prior spells, makes him a compelling option despite the logistical hurdles.
Appiah’s first tenure shone brightly, qualifying Ghana for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. There, the Black Stars bowed out in the group stage but drew plaudits for holding eventual champions Germany to a stalemate, the only coach to avoid defeat against them at the finals.
His second stint from 2017 to 2019 faltered amid inconsistency, leading to his dismissal after two years.
As an alternative, the GFA eyes continuity with its revamped technical team. Interim candidate Desmond Offei could step up, backed by assistants Alain Ravera, John Paintsil, and Kim Lars Bjorkegren, plus scout Jose Daniel Martínez Alfonso and physiotherapist Carlos Lozano Romero. This internal setup buys time for a permanent hire.
Time presses with May friendlies against Mexico and Wales looming, as Ghana readies for a tough World Cup group featuring Panama, Croatia, and England. The FA’s decision will shape the Black Stars’ campaign, will it be a homecoming for Appiah or steady hands from within?
