Former Ghanaian footballer Mohammed Gargo has denied reports suggesting that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) plans to fire John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann from their roles as assistant coaches of the Black Stars.
Gargo explained that removing the assistant coaches would not solve the team’s issues since they follow the instructions of the head coach.
He emphasized that head coach Otto Addo is responsible for most of the decisions, and therefore, any accountability should fall on him, not the assistants.
In an interview with Citi Sports, Gargo recommended that the GFA consider dismissing Otto Addo instead, as the assistants play a smaller role in the team’s performance.
“Whenever a team wants to dismiss its technical team, it should start with the head coach, as they are responsible for the team’s performance. The head coach gives instructions to assistants, who carry out the day’s business, including training sessions and preparations.
“So, if changes are to be made, the entire technical team should go, making way for a new team that can potentially do better. However, it’s unfair to sack the assistants and retain the head coach. In post-match interviews, Otto Addo has taken responsibility for the team’s performance,” Gargo said.
This follows reports that the GFA intends to part ways with Black Stars assistant coaches John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann as part of a plan to overhaul the technical team.
As the 2026 World Cup qualifiers resume in March 2025, the Black Stars will face Chad at home and travel to Madagascar.