Otto Addo says messages from 50 players after Ghana exit were “best validation”
Former Black Stars head coach Otto Addo says the support he received from more than 50 players following his dismissal was the strongest confirmation that he had built positive relationships during his time in charge of Ghana.
Addo revealed that players, including some he had never selected for the national team, contacted him after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) ended his second spell as head coach on 31 March.
The 50-year-old made the revelation in an interview with German football magazine 11Freunde, where he reflected on the reaction to his departure despite having guided Ghana to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“More than 50 players got in touch with me, including some I had never called up,” Addo said.
“I counted over 50 WhatsApp messages. Even players who were there in 2022 but are not in the team now reached out. Players I did not invite also got in touch.”
Addo said the messages were a reflection of the effort he made to maintain open communication with players, including those who were left out of his squads.
“I always try to explain why one or the other isn’t called. There are also tactical reasons. I explained my perspective and why they were not coming along,” he added.
The former Borussia Dortmund assistant coach admitted that the unexpected show of support after his dismissal was deeply meaningful.
“After I was fired, I received many messages. They made me very happy. For me, it was the best validation.”
Addo returned for his second stint as Ghana coach in March 2024 and successfully led the Black Stars through World Cup qualifying, securing the country’s place at the 2026 tournament.
However, his tenure came under pressure after Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The GFA later dismissed him following a disappointing run of friendly results, including defeats against Austria and Germany.