2026 World Cup: I hope Carlos Queiroz's appointment can revive Black Stars, says GFA boss Kurt Okraku

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has expressed optimism that the appointment of Carlos Queiroz will inject renewed energy into the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Queiroz was named head coach following the dismissal of Otto Addo in March, with the Portuguese tactician now tasked with leading Ghana into the global tournament scheduled for this summer.

Speaking to Footie Centre on the sidelines of the FIFA Congress in Vancouver over the weekend, Okraku acknowledged concerns over injuries to key players but insisted the squad can draw inspiration from the new managerial direction.

"When I look at the list, it's quite worrying, but I derive my positivity from the fact that there is something in the Ghanaian; the indomitable spirit of the Ghanaian will always come up when the chips are so low, and I would want to believe that," he said.

He added that the unity generated by Queiroz’s arrival could be a major motivational boost.

"...with the unity of purpose that has been demonstrated by the entire nation as a result of the arrival of coach Carlos Queiroz, it would arouse extra energy in the Ghanaian player, to the 12th man, and we will find the right level of energy to be competitive," Okraku added.

The Black Stars will make their fifth World Cup appearance in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, having been drawn in Group I alongside Panama, England, and Croatia.

Ghana begin their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.

Ahead of the tournament, Queiroz’s side will play warm-up matches against Mexico later this month and Wales on June 2.

The 73-year-old former Iran, Egypt, and Colombia coach is expected to announce his final squad on June 1.