Black Stars: GFA explains decision to open coaching job to applicants

Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director Henry Asante Twum says the decision to open applications for the vacant Black Stars head coach position was aimed at restoring public confidence and adhering to the recruitment approach agreed with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation.

The GFA and the Ministry established a five-member committee to oversee the search for a substantive coach following Carlos Queiroz’s departure after Ghana’s poor start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The Black Stars, who failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, have lost their opening two Group C matches against Ivory Coast and The Gambia, leaving them bottom of the table without a point.

Asante Twum acknowledged that headhunting and recommendations were possible options but said the authorities had to consider public sentiment and adopt an approach that would help rebuild trust.

“Every point raised is very valid. However, sometimes you also have to consider the research method you are using to find a solution, especially when you want to restore public confidence,” he told TV3.

“You are dealing with people who, in a way, are tired of a certain style or way of doing things and want you to change. All these are part of the process.”

He stressed that the decision could not be taken by the GFA alone, given the Ministry’s involvement in the recruitment process.

“Since the decision was not solely that of the FA and had to involve the Ministry, we had to agree to move in certain directions. We needed to respect that particular approach,” Asante Twum added.

The decision to invite applications opened the recruitment process to interested candidates rather than relying exclusively on direct approaches to preferred coaches.

Meanwhile, Kim Lars Björkegren has been appointed to lead the Black Stars on an interim basis for their November 2026 double-header against Somalia in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

He will work alongside assistants Ibrahim Tanko and Godwin Attram for the two matches.

The GFA is expected to appoint a substantive head coach before Ghana’s final round of matches in the qualifiers next year, with the new appointment expected to guide the team’s efforts to revive its campaign.