Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has urged Black Stars head coach Otto Addoto remain firm and decisive in his decision-making to enhance the team’s performance.
Addo, who was recently reappointed as the head coach, has already made a positive impact by achieving back-to-back victories in the World Cup qualifiers.
Agyemang-Badu, a former Udinese player, expressed his support for Addo’s strategies and decisions.
The 33-year-old midfielder was particularly impressed with the team’s recent performances against Mali and the Central African Republic, citing these matches as a solid foundation for future growth.
One notable decision by Addo was to exclude captain Andre Ayew from these games, a move that garnered widespread praise.
“He’s bringing in new good guys. There are a lot of lapses in the team. That one, we can’t run away from that. He’s well experienced,” Agyemang-Badu told Joy Sports.
“This is the second coming. He knows where he needs to beef up. We will support him. I mean, I’m a fan of him. Let me tell you that for a fact. I think he will build a good team for us.”
Agyemang-Badu emphasized the importance of Addo remaining firm in his decisions, saying, “He should be very tough like how he is as usual. Take decisions that he thinks will help him and help the team. That’s the most important thing.”
The Black Stars are preparing for their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in September. Fans and pundits alike are eagerly awaiting the implementation of Addo’s strategies.
West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus recently surprised Black Stars coach Otto Addo with a gift of new boots from Skechers. Kudus, who has joined the roster of athletes endorsing Skechers, ended his previous deal with Puma.
The Ghana international now stands alongside prominent names like England’s Harry Kane, Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Sweden’s Anthony Elanga.
To mark his new partnership, Kudus gifted his national team coach a pair of Skechers boots in celebration of Addo’s birthday, which occurred in June.
Addo, in turn, congratulated Kudus on being named Ghana Player of the Year 2024. He shared his appreciation on Instagram, writing: “Congratulations on receiving the Player of the Year award. And thank you for the shoes.”
Otto Addo, head coach of the Black Stars,has revealed that he has adopted a more composed approach when interacting with the media, attributing this change to advice received from his mother and other family members.
During his initial tenure as Black Stars head coach, Addo was perceived by many as being overly emotional in his interactions with the press.
However, since his return to the role, he has garnered praise for his improved handling of media relations.
When questioned about this transformation in an interview with 3Sports, Coach Otto Addo credited his mother’s advice as instrumental in helping him achieve a calmer demeanour.
“I don’t know if my approach was that different. My mother talked to me about taking off my emotions, even if I don’t like some questions. My family asked me to solve this and to be calm.
I have been talking to the FA president and the head of communications, who also gave me good advice.
I think I learned not to be too emotional, even if there are questions I don’t like. I think it keeps me calm,” he said.
Coach Otto Addo has begun his second tenure impressively by guiding the Black Stars to victories against Mali and the Central African Republic, revitalising Ghana’s campaign in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Black Stars’ head coach, Otto Addo, recently shared his favorite musicians, highlighting a mix of Ghanaian and African artists.
Among his top picks were Shatta Wale, known for his vibrant Ga-infused music, Kwesi Arthur, Sarkodie, and rising star Black Sherif from Ghana.
He also mentioned his appreciation for Mr Eazi from Nigeria and Buju BNXN, showcasing a diverse taste in African music.
In an interview with 3Sports, Addo expressed his love for music, stating, “I also love to listen to music, for sure.” He further elaborated on his favorites, emphasizing his admiration for artists who bring unique styles and lyrical depth to their work.
Addo, who is currently making waves in his second stint with the Black Stars, has shown strong results, securing wins and drawing attention to Ghana’s performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
His eclectic taste in music reflects a broader appreciation for cultural richness and creativity, both on and off the field.
Despite André Ayew’s impressive form at Le Havre, where he scored six goals in 12 starts, he was notably omitted from Otto Addo’s 26-man squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers’ third and fourth matches.
The decision to exclude André surprised many fans, given his recent performances.
Following Ghana’s thrilling 4-3 victory over the Central African Republic on Monday, questions arose about André’s absence.
In response, Otto Addo chose to address the situation on behalf of Jordan Ayew.
“Let me speak for Jordan. Of course, he wants his brother beside him, but ultimately, the decision lies with me and the coaching staff. As a brother, naturally, he would prefer to have Andre next to him,” Addo explained.
“But I have a responsibility to the national team and to Ghana. I must make decisions that are best for the team. Who knows? Maybe Andre will be included in the future, or maybe not.
It’s uncertain. I might not even be here to decide. We just don’t know what the future holds.”
Jordan Ayew has played a pivotal role for Ghana, scoring decisive goals in their recent victories over Mali and the Central African Republic.
These performances have been instrumental, as the Black Stars currently hold the second position in Group I, aiming to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Under theguidance of Otto Addo, Ghana is determined to continue their quest for World Cup qualification, with upcoming matches against Chad and Madagascar scheduled for March 2025.
Ghana coach Otto Addo anticipates a challenging match against the Central African Republic (CAR) in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Black Stars coach will face CAR in the fourth round of matches at Baba Yara Stadium on Monday, with the game scheduled to kick off at 19:00 GMT.
Reflecting on their recent comeback victory against Mali in Bamako during the third round, Addo emphasised the challenging nature of the upcoming contest against CAR.
“It’s going to be very difficult. For everyone who thinks we can just play them, I don’t think it will happen,” said the former Borussia Dortmund coach.
“They’re doing well, especially in the offensive transitions. They’re very dangerous; they showed that in the 1-1 draw against Mali,” he added.
With six points, theBlack Stars are now ranked third in Group I. Gaining the match would greatly increase their prospects of making it to the World Cup.
The Black Stars are set to face the Eagles of Mali in Bamako on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 7pm as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Matchday three qualifiers.
Otto Addo’s men departed Accra at 5 PM and arrived in Bamako around 7 PM GMT via ASKY Airlines after completing five days of intensive training in Accra. The team is ready for the crucial Group I clash, which is pivotal for their World Cup qualification hopes.
The Black Stars are looking to bounce back from a mixed start to their qualifiers, which saw them secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Madagascar but suffer a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Comoros in November last year.
The team is determined to secure their first win in five matches across all competitions, having endured two defeats and three draws in their last five competitive fixtures. The players and coaching staff are focused on turning their fortunes around and gaining momentum in their World Cup qualification campaign.
Sports journalist from Ghana, Collins Atta Poku, has recounted how Black Stars head coach Otto Addopersonally told Andre Dede Ayew that he was cut from the team.
Atta Poku claims that the manager left out the former Olympique Marseille player due to Ayew’s longevity in the team and his desire to advance the Black Stars.
Speaking on Africa614 Multimedia, he stated that because the players believe Otto Addo still has much to offer, Ayew did not accept Otto Addo’s choice.
“He sat down with him and told him that he had transcended two generations at the Black Stars. Dede has outlived Appiah; Dede has outlived Essien and John Mensah…If you look closely at things, he is the only surviving member of the 2010 World Cup squad. So the Black Stars would have to evolve away from you. Dede did not agree because he still wanted to play.”
On Wed, May 29, 2024, Otto Addo held a news conference to reveal his World Cup qualifying team.
Otto Addo said he had conversations with Dede Ayew but kept quiet about what he told the Black Stars captain when questioned about why the player was left out.
“I had a long talk with André and gave him the reasons why he is not in the squad. I talk to players directly and don’t like to disclose information about our discussions. This is the decision we took, and it’s not like he necessarily agreed, but I still have great respect for him,” he told the media.
Solar Ayew, Andre Ayew’s uncle, responded to the manager’s decision, saying the family accepted it in good faith despite being shocked.
“We’ve taken Andre Ayew’s omission from the Black Stars squad normally. He was earning invites when he was unattached, so his omission will surprise not only me but everyone because he is at the top of his game now.
Media personality Abubakar Ahmed, widely known as Blakk Rasta, has openly criticized Black Stars’ head coach Otto Addo, describing him as arrogant.
The well-known broadcaster believes the German-trained coach owes Ghanaians an apology for the way he exited his position as Black Stars head coach in 2023.
During an interview on 3FM, Blakk Rasta expressed his disappointment in Otto Addo, stating that he has lost respect for the manager.
He further remarked that Otto Addo will not accomplish anything significant with the Black Stars if he continues to exhibit such prideful behavior.
“I have no respect for this coach called Otto Addo. I used to, but not anymore. Has he apologized for the way he left?
Putting the apology aside, has he explained to us why he left in the first place? To me, he is a two-faced individual, with one leg in the White man’s land and one leg here.
Remember, when he was called to come and coach, he told them that his heart was with his foreign team where he was an assistant coach,” he said on 3FM.
“He resigned so discourteously before he even arrived in Ghana, just like Laryea Kingston.
The good thing about Laryea Kingston is that he has apologized. But when it comes to Otto Addo, he is so proud, extremely proud.
Such a coach can never lead any team to success. Pride will never work. And I’m not saying this because he dropped Dede Ayew. He can drop the entire team and bring demons to play; I don’t mind and I don’t care,” he added.
Otto Addo, who stepped down as Ghana’s coach following the 2022 FIFA World Cup, was reinstated in March 2024.
He has since revealed the lineup for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic.
Ghana is set to play against Mali on Thursday, June 7, 2024, and will then face the Central African Republic at home on Monday, June 10, 2024.
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Parteywill captain the Black Stars in their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic.
This announcement was made by Black Stars coach Otto Addo during a press conference on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, where he also confirmed the exclusion of regular captain André Ayew for these matches.
Otto Addo did not rule out a future return for Ayew but stated that Partey, as the deputy captain, will lead the team in the interim.
He emphasized that Partey’s return is a positive development for the Black Stars as they aim to secure their fifth World Cup qualification.
The Black Stars will face Mali in Bamako on June 6, followed by a match against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on June 10.
Black Stars coach Otto Addois set to announce his squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR) today, Wednesday, May 29, 2024.
Reports indicate that team captain Andre Dede Ayew has been excluded from the lineup for the doubleheader.
According to Angel FM, Ayew, who concluded the French Ligue 1 season with five goals for Le Havre, was not invited by Addo.
The credibility of these reports is bolstered by a list published by Le Havre, detailing players called up for national duty in June.
This list includes Toure Abdoulaye of Guinea, Sangate Arouna of Senegal, Daler Kuzyaev of Russia, Nego Loic of Hungary, Kone Mohamed, and Operi Christopher of Ivory Coast, but notably omits Ayew.
The omission of Ayew is believed to align with Otto Addo’s new strategy for the team.
Addo recently held discussions with senior players such as Thomas Partey, Andre Ayew, and Daniel Amartey to outline his vision for the team’s future.
Addo plans to gradually reduce reliance on veteran players and focus on developing younger talents.
While some experienced players will still feature in the upcoming qualifiers, their involvement is expected to decrease in future selections.
The revamped Black Stars squad is likely to be led by Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United, with significant contributions from Antoine Semenyo, Kamaldeen Sulemana, and Tariq Lamptey, among others.
Black Stars will face Mali in Bamako on June 6, followed by a match against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on June 10.
After missing the last international fixtures in March, the pair are expected to be named in Otto Addo’s 24-man squad to face Mali and the Central African Republic, according to Akoma FM.
The report also mentions that former Medeama striker Jonathan Sowah will make his return to the national team following a successful stint at Al Nassr in Libya.
Sowah is set to replace Atletico Club striker Inaki Williams, who will be absent due to foot surgery.
In terms of new additions, Cagliari midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana is anticipated to be the only debutant in the squad.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced that the Black Stars will commence their training camp on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
According to a statement released by the GFA on Monday, May 27, 2024, the team will undergo a six-day training session before traveling to Bamako on Tuesday, June 4, 2024.
Here is the full Black Stars list:
Lawrence Ati-Zigi Frederick Asare Jojo Wollacott Alidu Seidu Tariq Lamptey Denis Odoi Gideon Mensah Baba Rahman Daniel Amartey Alexander Djiku Salisu Mohammed Abdul Salis Samed Mohammed Kudus Ibrahim Sulemana Andre Ayew Thomas Partey Baba Iddrisu Osman Bukari Fatawu Issahaku Ernest Nuamah Joseph Paintsil Jonathan Sowah Antoine Semenyo Jordan Ayew
Ace sports journalist Collins Atta Poku has argued that Black Stars players should not require any extra motivation to show up for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic.
Atta Poku believes that the significance of these two matches should be sufficient to inspire the players to perform at their best for Ghanaians.
He emphasized that the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, holds great importance for Ghanaians, and the Black Stars players should be driven enough to secure victories in both matches.
In response to reports suggesting Thomas Partey might be excluded from the games, Atta Poku strongly argued that the Arsenal midfielder should not need to be persuaded to play for the Black Stars.
While questioning the credibility of these reports, Atta Poku stated that Partey would likely want to emulate the career paths of Stephen Appiah, Michael Essien, and Sulley Muntari, who all concluded their national team careers with World Cup participation.
He explained that Ghana needs wins against Mali and the Central African Republic to be in a strong position for qualification, and that all in-form players, including Thomas Partey, should be included in the squad.
“Nobody needs to speak to Teye Partey to play that game in Bamako. If you are a player worth your salt, these are some of the matches you use to prove your mettle.
He is one of the leaders in the team, so why should we beg him to come and play this game?
“The World Cup is at stake, and I’m sure he would love to play in his last World Cup. Stephen Appiah did it in 2010, and Essien and Muntari did it in 2014. They exited the national team after the World Cup.
What has this crop of players achieved? Nobody should beg anyone to come and play this game.
“In 2009, it was then-youngster Kwadwo Asamoah who won us the game against Mali in the World Cup qualifiers. His teammates, Jorginho and Declan Rice, will be playing in the European Championship.
Partey’s equivalent of that is the World Cup qualifiers, so he should come and play. I don’t think he will turn down call-ups,” he said.
Meanwhile, coach Otto Addo is set to announce the squad for the two upcoming matches next week.
The Black Stars are scheduled to play against Mali in Bamako on June 6, followed by a game against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadiumon June 10.
The future roles of some veteran Black Stars players are uncertain due to a strategic shift bycoach Otto Addo.
According to reports from Angel FM, ahead of announcing the squad for upcoming matches against Mali and the Central African Republic, Otto Addo has had discussions with senior Black Stars players.
Addo reportedly held individual meetings with players like Thomas Partey, Andre Ayew, and Daniel Amartey to share his vision.
The reports indicate that Addo plans to gradually reduce reliance on older players and focus on developing younger talent within the team.
Although the veteran players are expected to be part of the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic, their future involvement may be limited.
The revamped Black Stars are set to feature Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United as a central figure, with Antoine Semenyo, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Tariq Lamptey, and others expected to take on more prominent roles.
Otto Addo is expected to announce the squad for the matches against Mali and the Central African Republic soon.
Earlier reports suggested Addo would arrive in Ghana this week for the squad announcement, but updates on Monday, May 20, 2024, indicate his arrival may be delayed until after theUEFA Champions League final.
The Black Stars are scheduled to play Mali in Bamako on June 6, followed by a match against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on June 10.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo is expected to face a delay in his arrival in Ghana for the upcoming matches against Mali and the Central African Republic.
Reports indicate that Addo plans to attend the UEFA Champions League final before joining the Black Stars squad.
According to Angel FM, Addo is considering being with the Dortmund delegation at the Champions League final, which occurs just before the Black Stars’ engagements.
Ghana is scheduled to play against Mali in Bamako on June 6, followed by a home game against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on June 10.
The Champions League final is set for Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Wembley Stadium in the UK, featuring a match between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund.
Addo’s Dortmund will be facing the 14-time champions.
Borussia Dortmund held an official send-off for Otto Addo on April 18, 2024.
While initial reports suggested his arrival in Ghana this week, Angel FM now reports that he may first attend the Champions League final.
It is expected thatOtto Addowill soon announce the squad for the two World Cup qualifying matches.
Former Ghana international, Mohammed Polo, believes Otto Addo was forced to take up the Black stars job, claiming the former Borussia Dortmund talent coach is not ready for the job.
The Ghana Football Association re-appointed Otto Addo as head coach of the senior national team in March 2024 following the sacking of Chris Hughton after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire.
Otto Addo was, reportedly, not part of the initially shortlisted coaches for the position, but was a late entry because the GFA preferred him over those who applied.
Speaking to Joy Sports in an interview, Mohammed Polo was critical in his assessment of the GFA’s decision to re-appoint the 48-year-old as Ghana coach.
“Otto was not even ready. He was been forced to take up the job. Those who are ready, give it to them,” Polo said.
“The guy came here and he told you point blank he has a job, and you said, ‘Please, come and do the job,’ as if we without him, nobody can do the job. What is this?
“He came, fine, and qualified us to the World Cup [in Qatar] with only two matches.”
Asamoah Gyan, the former Black Stars striker, has appealed to Ghanaians to exercise patience with Otto Addo and allow him the necessary time to revitalize the team.
During an interview on Asempa FM on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, Gyan emphasised the importance of giving the coach sufficient time as the team undergoes a rebuilding phase.
“Otto Addo has returned. It’s a different atmosphere and different players. Although he has worked with some of the players, I think it’s still a process. He also came with a new staff so it’s a different era,” said Asamoah Gyan on Asempa FM.
He added that, just like Otto Addo’s first stint, Ghanaians should throw their weight behind the coach.
“Let’s see what he also has for us. We will supporthim through his rebuilding to see where he can take us. Ghanaians will be the ones to judge what he has done so I think we should give him time to rebuild his team,” Gyan said.
Otto Addo, returning for his second term as head coach of the Black Stars, previously guided Ghana to qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
However, his second tenure commenced with disappointment as the team failed to secure a victory in the two matches played during the March 2024 international break. The Black Stars suffered a 2-1 defeat to Nigeria and managed only a 2-2 draw against Uganda.
Ghana coach Otto Addo addressed the goalkeeper situation within the Black Stars, particularly focusing on Jojo Wollacott’s endeavor to reclaim the starting position.
Addo acknowledged the obstacles facing Wollacott, citing his lack of regular playing time at club level as a significant factor.
Despite Wollacott’s prior status as the first-choice goalkeeper before a finger injury sidelined him for the 2022 World Cup, his path to reclaiming the position has been hindered by challenges, including injuries and limited game time at Scottish club Hibernian.
Addo also praised the performances of Lawrence Ati-Zigi and newcomer Frederick Asare, highlighting their contributions amid the ongoing competition for the goalkeeper spot in the team.
“I left it open,” Addo remarked regarding the selection of the starting goalkeeper for the Uganda match.
“I have to say that Ati-Zigi had a good match. I gave him the start because he is a regular player at his club. Frederick is new and young. I think he made a good first impression.”
Regarding Wollacott’s situation, Addo explained, “Joseph Wollacott at the moment is not playing in his club so it’s difficult to say that he will be the number one at the moment.”
However, Addo indicated that Wollacott would be allowed to showcase his abilities in the upcoming match against Uganda.
“We will decide in June who will be the goalkeeper who will stand in the goal,” Addo concluded.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo has advised his players not to underestimate their next opponent, Uganda, following their recent loss to Nigeria.
Ghana suffered a 2-1 defeat against Nigeria, prompting Addo to stress the importance of their upcoming match against Uganda.
Recognising Uganda as a strong adversary, Addo emphasised the need for thorough preparation and strategic planning.
In a post-match interview with Ghana Football Communications, Addo pointed out Uganda’s strengths, highlighting their talented players and effective gameplay.
“Yeah, we have Uganda on Tuesday and the boys. I think they played well but if they think it will be an easy game, then they are wrong. Uganda is very, very good. I watched them a little bit before now; I have to go deeper,” he said.
“They have good players, we have to have a good plan if we want to win this game. I don’t see us as favourites; it will be an even game. We have to rest now, I have to think about how we play, and maybe we need some fresh legs.
“For me, the most important thing is to get options and to get solutions for the upcoming games so these friendly matches are very, very important for us to know how they play and how they can adapt and take it to theWorld Cup qualifiers in June,” he added.
Ghanaian former professional footballer John Paintsil was recently captured on video, having a great time during a camp celebration with the Black Stars team.
Dressed in the team’s outfit, Paintsil showcased his dance moves, much to the delight of his teammates who cheered him on.
The lively display appeared to be a traditional initiation ritual for new members joining the camp.
Paintsil, who was recently elected as the vice to coach Otto Addo for the Ghana national football team, demonstrated his skills amidst the camaraderie of the Black Stars players.
The team has faced challenges in recent tournaments, including an early exit from the recent AFCON.
In a recent friendly match against Nigeria, the team suffered a 2-1 defeat, highlighting their struggles to regain top form.
As Paintsil settles into his new role, the upcoming games will provide opportunities to make a significant impact and contribute to the team’s success moving forward.
Ghana’s 27-man squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Nigeria and Uganda includes players from various clubs around the world.
Among them are David Akologo from Bolivia, Ibrahim Osman from Nordsjaelland, Nathaniel Adjei from France, and Diomande Mohammed from Rangers of Scotland.
These four, along with Frederick Asare from Asante Kotoko, have earned their debut call-ups due to their standout performances at their respective clubs.
The matches, set to take place in Marrakech, Morocco, mark the start of a new era under coach Otto Addo. Additionally, Brighton and Hove Albion’s Tariq Lamptey returns to the squad after recovering from an injury.
Ivorian midfielder, Mohamed Diomande, recently included in the Black Stars squad for friendly matches against Nigeria and Uganda, posted a cryptic message on social media regarding the Ghana Football Association’s efforts to secure his commitment to Ghana.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday, March 21, 2024, the Right to Dream Academy graduate expressed gratitude to God for his career progression, which has seen him play for Scottish club Rangers FC and attract interest from Ghana.
However, Diomande stopped short of confirming or rejecting the call-up, instead hinting that he had communicated his decision to Black Stars coach Otto Addo.
“I am really grateful to ALLAH for having achieved part of this dream; that of becoming a professional footballer, it remains the other part; that of joining the national team and also making my parents proud.
“In addition, I am equally aware of the interest in my host country Ghana, where I have spent more than 7 years of my life training as a footballer.
“However, a lot has been said, but I am in direct contact with the manager concerning my decision, and it is he who holds the real information about my choice,” he said.
Diomande, a native of Ivory Coast, is qualified to represent Ghana due to his extensive time spent in the country, including training at the Right to Dream Academy.
He was selected in Otto Addo’s 26-man squad for matches against Nigeria and Uganda scheduled for March 22 and March 26 respectively at Stade de Marrakech in Morocco.
However, Diomande is expected to accept acall-up from Ivory Coast, as he has been included in their latest Under-23 squad for an upcoming game against France.
Likewise, goalkeeper David Akologo is likely to withdraw from the squad as he is currently with the Bolivia camp.
Head of Sports at Despite Media, Dan Kwaku Yeboah, has criticized the recent appointment of a new technical team for the Black Stars despite ongoing issues within Ghanaian football.
He attributes this decision to what he perceives as a lack of effective leadership within the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ghana Football Association.
According to Yeboah, if there were competent leaders in football management, they would have halted the appointment of Otto Addo and his team given the current challenges in the sport.
He expressed disappointment that neither the Ministry nor the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sports demanded reports from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before approving the FA’s decision.
Yeboah likened the situation to a doctor prescribing medication without first diagnosing the patient’s specific ailment. Due to what he sees as a lack of thorough investigation into the coaching team’s appointment, Yeboah doubts that the Black Stars’ fortunes will improve under the new leadership.
“It’s an indication that there is no elder at home. It shows that when it comes to the running of football in our country, no one cares. You can’t send a patient to a hospital and prescribe medications for him when there has been no diagnosis.
“It has never happened in the history of this country that after a tournament, we proceed to appoint new coaches without the reports of the previous technical, playing and medical teams. If the sports minister and parliament were in control, he would have demanded all these reports before allowing the FA to appoint a new coach,” he said.
Turning his focus to Otto Addo, the ace sports journalist wondered why the former Black Stars winger, who claimed to have his future secured with German Bundesliga side, Borussia Dortmund, has turned around to accept the role after exiting the position in December 2022.
“It’s about time Ghanaians stop following the
. Otto Addo told us he and his family don’t see their future in Ghana so why the sudden U-turn. Do they now see their future in Ghana? What has changed in less than three months? Does Otto Addo meet the criteria set by the GFA?” he quizzed.
TheGhana Football Association officially announced Otto Addo’s reappointment as the coach of the Black Stars on March 15, 2024.
Addo will start his second term with the team by facing Nigeria on March 22, followed by a match against Uganda four days later. Joseph Laumann and John Paintsil will assist him, with Fatawu Dauda serving as the goalkeepers’ coach.
Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars, commenced their training sessions in Marrakesh, Morocco, ahead of two friendly matches against Nigeria and Uganda scheduled for March 22 and 26, 2024, respectively.
Led by newly appointed head coach Otto Addo and his coaching staff, the team conducted their initial training session with 16 players participating.
Notable players included Tariq Lamptey, Andre Ayew, and Jordan Ayew, among others.
As reported by Football Ghana, the squad size later increased to 23 players with additional arrivals.
A video shared by the Ghana Football Association showcased the players undergoing various training drills, overseen by the coaching staff.
Special attention was given to goalkeepers under the guidance of new goalkeeping coach Fatawu Dauda.
Training activities included ball juggling, rondos, and shooting drills to prepare the players for the upcoming matches.
These friendly games mark Otto Addo’s return to coaching the Black Stars after the team’s disappointing performance in the 2023 African Cup of Nations.
Following that tournament,former coach Chris Hughton and his entire coaching staff were replaced by Otto Addo, Joseph Laumann, John Paintsil, and Fatawu Dauda, aiming to revitalize the team’s performance.
Otto Addo has settled on John Painstil, and Fatawu Dauda as his assistant coaches as he takes up the role of Black Stars head coach.
Lauman, a UEFA pro-license holder, who previously played in Cyprus, Germany, and Vietnam has had stints with Standard Liege, VfL Bochum, and Barnsley in the English championship.
Former Fulham player John Painstil played West Ham United, Kaizer Chiefs of South Africa, Berekum Arsenal and Liberty Professionals. He featured in two FIFA World Cup tournaments for Ghana before retiring.
Paintsil is a Ghanaian legend with 89 caps, a former captain, and a member of the squad that won bronze in the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations. He served as an assistant coach at Kaizer Chiefs and a CAF Licence B holder.
Fatawu Dauda, a former goalkeeper of Voradep, Okwahu United, AshantiGold and Orlando Pirates, represented Ghana 23 times and featured in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
The Ghana Football Association has assured its readiness to provide the necessary support to the newly formed technical team to ensure their success.
The GFA has also called on Ghanaians to exercise patience and offer the team their full backing as the nation embarks on this rebuilding process.
Otto Addo who has recently been appointed head coach of the senior national team, Black Stars, has named a 26-man provisional squad for the friendlies in the upcoming international break.
There are five new players in the squad and among them is Asante Kotoko’s Frederick Asare. The other four are Bolivia-based David Akologo, who has also been invited to the Bolivia national team, Lorient’s Nathaniel Adjei, Mohammed Diomande of Rangers and Nordsjaelland’s Ibrahim Osman.
Tariq Lamptey is also making a return to the squad after his return from a long-term injury. He missed the AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire due to his injury. Leicester City winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku has also made it to the provisional squad.
Ghana is set to face Nigeria on March and Uganda four days later.
German Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund have penned a heartfelt message to outgoing talent coach Otto Addo, who is leaving the club to become the head of the Black Stars.
In a social media message, Dortmund confirmed the imminent arrival of Otto Addo as Ghana’s coach, wishing him success in his new job.
Dortmund expressed belief that Otto Addo, who has worked on some of their finest talents, will bring his expertise to bear and succeed with Ghana.
“Borussia Dortmund talent coach Otto Addo will part ways in the summer as he embarks on his new role as coach for the Ghanaian national team.
“We wish him nothing but the best as he embraces this exciting new chapter in his career! Thank you for everything, Otto,” the statement reads.
Borussia Dortmund and talent coach Otto Addo will part ways in the summer as he embarks on his new role as coach for the Ghanaian national team.
We wish him nothing but the best as he embraces this exciting new chapter in his career!
Otto Addo’s return as the coach of the Black Stars was officially announced on Friday, March 15, 2024, through a press release issued by the Ghana Football Association.
According to the statement, Otto Addo has made a significant impression on the selection committee, securing a three-year contract to lead the Black Stars.
The announcement underscores Addo’s successful candidature and highlights the confidence placed in him to guide the national team forward.
GFA President Kurt Okraku is quoted in the statement to have said, “Otto was exceptional in the interview process and was rated highly by the search committee, hence the decision.”
“There were some brilliant individuals among the coaches who applied for the job, so the committee took the pain to interview a chunk of them to pick their thoughts on their intentions to transform the team within a short period of time due to our peculiar situation.
“The Committee was overly satisfied with Otto’s performance for which reason he was recommended to the Executive Council for approval,” President Simeon-Okraku added.
The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association has approved the decision of the five-member Black Stars Head Coach search committee to appoint Otto Addo as the next coach of Ghana.
This decision was made following a long but decisive emergency meeting of the Executive Council on Thursday, March 14, 2024.
During the meeting, the Council reviewed the report of the search committee, which was led by Vice President Mark Addo, and further deliberated on the matter.
As a result, the Ghana Football Association has reached an agreement with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund for Otto Addo to be released to take up the coaching position.
Otto Addo will be offered a 34-month contract with an option for a further 24 months.
“Otto was exceptional in the interview process and was rated highly by the search committee, hence the decision,” President Simeon-Okraku told ghanafa.org
“There were some brilliant individuals among the coaches who applied for the job, so the committee took the pain to interview a chunk of them to pick their thoughts on their intentions to transform the team within a short period of time due to our peculiar situation”
“The Committee was overly satisfied with Otto’s performance for which reason he was recommended to the Executive Council for approval,” President Simeon-Okraku added.
Otto will be allowed by Borussia Dortmund to join Ghana for the March international window, after which he will travel back to the club to officially hand over and take up the job permanently in May this year.
In December 2022, Otto Addo revealed the reason behind his decision to leave his position as Coach of the Black Stars, saying the decision is not only in his hands.
“The decision is not only in my hands, before I even started working with the GFA, everybody knew I had a contract with Dortmund and to even come here was very difficult and the GFA put a lot of effort to get me released,” he said in a press briefing in Qatar on Saturday following Ghana’s exit from the World Cup.
“What you have to know is the position I have as a talent coach is very crucial to Dortmund. We produce a lot of big talents. It is a crucial and important position for the club’’.
“Normally they won’t have to let me go but because I want to help the country and the GFA went there and had good talks, they released me for six months,” he added.
Addo won four games during his time with the Black Stars, beating Madagascar and South Korea in competitive games with the other victories coming against Nicaragua and Switzerland in friendlies.
Ghana qualified for the World Cup at the expense of Nigeria on 1-1 aggregate following a goalless draw in Kumasi and 1-1 in Abuja on March 29, 2022.
The Black Stars lost to Brazil and Uruguay and grabbed a 1-1 draw against Central African Republic in the other games under Otto Addo.
Ghana crashed out of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tournament after finishing bottom of Group H with three points.
The team suffered two defeats to Portugal (3-2) and Uruguay (2-0) and defeated South Korea 3-2 in the other Group match.
Speculation surrounding the next technical team for the Black Stars continues to circulate within the media sphere, with Otto Addo emerging as a prominent figure in discussions to succeed Chris Hughton.
On Tuesday, February 21, 2024, reports emerged indicating that former Chelsea star Michael Essien is being considered for the assistant coaching position.
According to the reports, Essien has expressed openness to the opportunity and has welcomed the Ghana Football Association’s approach to serving as deputy to Otto Addo.
There are indications that the Ghana Football Association intends to construct a Black Stars technical team largely comprised of former players from the Black Stars squads spanning 2005 to 2014.
Recent rumours have linked Asamoah Gyan and Adam Kwarasey to potential roles within the team. It’s reported that Gyan may take on the position of custodian trainer, while Kwarasey, a member of the 2014 World Cup team, is under consideration for the role previously held by the esteemed Richard Kingson.
Additionally, Asamoah Gyan is rumoured to be considered as a replacement for Ameenu Shadow, who served as team manager during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Laryea Kingston, who is currently serving as an assistant coach with the Black Starlets, is also reportedly being considered for one of the two assistant coach positions.
Denial by GFA Exco member:
A member of the Executive Council of theGhana Football Association, Frederick Acheampong, has expressed shock about the reports flying in the media space over the issue.
“The appointment of the coach does not even stop with the search committee. This is from our level (the Executive Committee). The decision we made was that the search committee should draw up a shortlist of three coaches, so I was surprised to hear that Otto Addo is leading the race as if the search committee is in charge of appointing a coach.
“The search committee is expected to bring three coaches to the Executive Council for further discussions and checks before one person will be chosen amongst the three,” he said in a Kessben FM interview monitored by Footballghana.com.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) is reportedly considering the re-appointment of former Black Stars coach Otto Addo as the new head coach of the Black Stars after scoring the highest marks in the job interview.
The Black Stars are currently without a substantive coach after the dismissal of coach Chris Hughton after his poor display and exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The GFA has since appointed a committee to hunt for an eligible coach to replace Chris Hughton.
Among the over 500 applicants received by the GFA for the role, Otto Addo, per speculation, is currently leading the race to become the new coach for Ghana, with talks currently ongoing between the two parties.
The 48-year-old’s first stint with the Black Stars was in early 2022, when he succeeded coach Milovan Rajevac and later led Ghana to edge Nigeria in two legs to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
At the Mundial in Qatar, he recorded only a win against South Korea and lost the remaining two against Portugal and Uruguay, after which he returned to his post at German giants Borussia Dortmund after the competition.
Meanwhile, some high-profile names, such as German coach Jurgen Kohler and former Black Stars coach Goran , as well as two local coaches and former players of the Black Stars,Maxwell Konadu and Michael.
Following reports indicating that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) is considering reappointing Otto Addo as the new head coach of the Black Stars, the majority of Ghanaians seem highly supportive of this potential decision.
The Ghana senior men’s national team currently finds itself without a permanent coach following the recent departure of Chris Hughton, in the aftermath of the team’s disappointing performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
In response, the GFA has formed a committee tasked with finding a suitable replacement, with specific criteria outlined for the search process.
However, speculation suggests that Otto Addo is emerging as the frontrunner for the position, with discussions reportedly underway between Addo and the GFA.
This prospective appointment is gaining favour among Ghanaian football enthusiasts, who appear to endorse the choice, while the GFA is reportedly inclined to offer Addo a long-term contract.
Otto Addo previously served as head coach in early 2022, stepping in after Milovan Rajevac, and notably guided Ghana to victory over Nigeria in the qualifiers for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Despite a mixed performance at the tournament itself, Addo’s track record and familiarity with the team are seen as assets for the role.
After the World Cup, he returned tohis coaching duties at German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund.
Former Black Stars coach Otto Addo has provided valuable counsel to the Ghanaian national football team as they gear up for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Emphasising the need for a strategic approach, Addo urges the team to prioritise a step-by-step method rather than being fixated solely on clinching the trophy.
Ghana is slated to face formidable adversaries in Group B, including Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique, during the AFCON tournament scheduled to take place in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11, 2023.
Speaking in anticipation of the competition, Otto Addo, who previously helmed the Black Stars during their 2022 World Cup campaign, underscores the importance of cultivating a gradual mindset. As the team navigates through the challenges ahead, Addo’s advice serves as a reminder to focus on the process rather than solely fixating on the end result.
“Step-by-step thinking is far better. If you are aiming too far away, it is difficult to fulfil them because you have to work daily. You have to train hard, you have to win each game, and the rest will come,” he told GTV.
When questioned about Ghana’s chances of breaking the 41-year wait for an AFCON trophy, the former Black Stars boss highlighted the importance of doing the groundwork first.
“It doesn’t make sense to always think about the cup or whatever; you have to do your homework first. There is some work you have to put in to survive the group stage and go to the next stage, and at the end, to win it, it is so much work,” he added.
Addo stressed the importance of instilling the right mentality within the entire Black Stars entourage as they enter the tournament. “Having the correct mindset is crucial in every moment. Even with the goal of winning, it’s essential to understand that sustaining that level requires continuous hard work. Therefore, my advice is for them to approach it game by game,” he emphasised.
Ghana’s questfor AFCON glory has been a prolonged one since their last triumph in Libya in 1982. The journey to end this title drought demands meticulous planning and precise execution, making Addo’s counsel on a focused, game-by-game approach all the more pertinent.
The team manager of Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars, Ameenu Shadow, has stated that the team would have performed better had Otto Addo remained as the head coach.
Otto Addo, who also serves as an assistant coach for Borussia Dortmund, stepped down from his position following Ghana’s elimination at the group stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Shadow stated that Addo had made errors during the tournament held in November and December 2022 but believed that he would have learned from those mistakes and made the necessary corrections to enhance the team’s competitiveness.
“We would have been better if Otto Addo stayed as Black Stars coach. I have always said it that Otto Addo made mistakes at the World Cup because he hadn’t been there before.
“Otto Addo is someone who learns on the job and Ghana would have been better if he had continued with his job as Black Stars head coach”, he told 3Sports.
Following Otto Addo’s departure, Chris Hughton has taken the reins as the head coach of the Black Stars.
Previously serving as a technical advisor during the World Cup, Hughton has guided the team to one victory and two draws since assuming the role in March 2023.
The team’s performance has been commendable under Hughton‘s leadership.
Following Otto Addo‘s resignation during the World Cup, the Ghana FA named Chris Hughton as the new head coach of the national team on Sunday.
Former Black goalie William Amamoo thinks Hughton’s hiring as Black Stars coach is a positive development.
“I think it’s a step in the right direction looking at the experience Chris comes with. He has understudied the team so well having worked as a technical adviser to the team during the World and that will serve as his guide to controlling the affairs of the team well” he told Nimdeɛ Fm in Sunyani.
George Boateng and Didi Dramani maintained their posts he assistants to the head coach.
Both coaches worked as assistants to Otto Addo during the World Cup.
“Maintaining George Boateng and Dramani as assistants is probably because Chris feels comfortable working and having them around the table. Every coach wants assistants they trust and I think Chris has experienced that with them,” he added
Black Stars will be looking to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and many Ghanaians will be hoping that Hughton can lead the team to success by winning next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
On Sunday, the Ghana Football Association [GFA] announced Chris Hughton, George Boateng, and Didi as the Black Stars’ new coaching staff.
The selection of Hughton as the new head coach would assure the continuation of the process started by the old coach, Otto Addo, last year, according to the former Asante Kotoko head trainer.
“The FA and the government’s collaborative mindset is a clear direction towards a deliberate and purposeful approach to remaining consistent but patient in modelling the process to create success,” he told Graphic Sports.
“Football matters need to be aligned with a clear direction from the now into the future and I think this is huge and must be a commitment for the various clubs to emulate.
“Definitely, deliberate approaches are the headlines of progression in developing our football and the Kurt Okraku-administration has clearly demonstrated that.
“It’s therefore clear that we need to build on the foundation and everyone must be on board in this process of creating success to build a comprehensive team that will stand the test of time,” the 56-year-old coach added.
Hughton served as the technical advisor of the Black Stars from February to December 2022, alongside coach Otto Addo and his assistants, Boateng and Dramani, from the World Cup playoff against Nigeria to the tournament proper.
The Black Stars, who are top of Group E for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with four points based on goal difference, will host Angola, who also have four points, on Monday, March 20, 2023.
Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram constituency, Sam George, has disclosed that Chris Hughton has been given the Black Stars coaching position.
Sam George claims the former technical advisor of the Black Stars been named as the new coach, although an official announcement is soon to come.
“That [coaching] job they have given it to Chris Hughton already so why are we wasting our time?” he quizzed on Joy Prime.
“They have given it to him because they want someone they can manipulate, someone they can use to do their business, someone they can tell him to bring his team selection [with changes being made with regards to agency callups] regardless of how long the person has played or not played.
“People are using GFA to make money, they are using it to feed their family.”, he added.
Hughton served as the Black Stars’ technical adviser at the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The Ghanaian with Irish ancestry was chosen as Otto Addo’s technical advisor in a hastily put together technical staff for the World Cup play-off against Nigeria in February.
Milovan Rajevac, a Serbian trainer, was fired following Ghana’s disappointing performance at the 2021 African Cup of Nations competition in Cameroon. Otto Addo was appointed coach, with George Boateng and Masaud Didi Dramani promoted to assistant roles.
In a two-legged play-off game, the revamped technical team orchestrated a qualification victory against bitter rivals Nigeria.
Ghana is searching for Otto Addo’s replacement as his six-month contract comes to an end.
The Irishman has been a member of the Black Stars technical staff since March 2021, and he was in Qatar at that time.
Many have predicted that he will succeed Otto Addo, whose contract ended following Ghana’s World Cup loss.
Hughton has coached teams in England including Norwich City, Newcastle United, and Brighton and Hove Albion.
Black Stars and KRC Genk winger Joseph Paintsil says former Ghana coach Otto Addo told him that there is more to football than just providing assists and scoring goals something at which Paintsil was excelling at.
Paintsil was named in the provisional 55-man squad list that was released on 2nd November 2022 by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Prior to the World Cup, the winger was among the most in-form Ghanaian players playing in Europe but then Black Stars coach Otto Addo did not fancy him.
Paintsil was snubbed by Otto Addo in September 2022 when Ghana played two friendly matches against Brazil and Nicaragua which they lost 3-0 and won 1-0 respectively.
The former Tema Youth winger has six goals and seven assists in 13 games across all competitions this season for Genk.
According to the player, Otto Addo denied him the opportunity to play at his first-ever World Cup by not selecting for Ghana despite his scintillating form in Belgium.
“His decision was unfair,” Paintsil disclosed in an interview with Belgium-based Newspaper Belang van Limburg.
” He gave me no valid reason to explain my absence. I told him the same thing during a phone conversation. He told me that there were players ahead of me in the hierarchy. Among them, there were guys who, like me, play in the Jupiler Pro League . They didn’t have couldn’t present the same stats, but Addo said football isn’t all about goals and assists.”
He added on his exit: “I’m happy about it. The World Cup was a fantastic opportunity to show me to the world, but he took it away from me. I’m now patiently waiting to see who the next national coach will be. , because I will always be available for the national team. Hoping for him that he continues to shoot on the ground as he does behind a microphone.”
Ghana exited the 2022 FIFA World Cup at the Group stage after a win over Korea and defeats to Portugal and Uruguay.
Former Ghanaian defender Dan Quaye thinks that the Black Stars‘ lack of discipline and haughtiness is hurting them.
Following a 2-0 loss against Uruguay, the Black Stars fell out of the tournament after the first round.
After defeating South Korea in their second group game, the Black Stars needed a draw or win against Uruguay to advance to the last 16 stage.
But the team failed to negotiate for points against their ‘enemies’ Uruguay.
“Current players of the national team are indiscipline and arrogant and I think that is affecting the Black Stars. It has become even difficult to correct them from their mistakes. Ghana football has been destroyed” he told Koforidua-based Bryt FM in an interview.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars have been ranked the 24th best team at the just ended 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar which was won by Lionel Messi inspired Argentina on Sunday.
The four-time African champions failed to progress past the group stage after recording two defeats and a win.
Otto Addo’s men lost 3-2 to Portugal, bounced back to beat South Korea 3-2 and lost 2-0 to Uruguay in an entertaining World Cup exit.
Despite failing to go past the group stage, the African giants placed 24 in the index rankings after the tournament saw Argentina beating France in a nerve-racking final to clinch their third World Cup title.
The Black Stars is currently without a coach following the exit of Otto Addo, who stepped down after early exit at the biggest soccer mundial in the Asian country.
Shortly after Ghana’s 0-2 defeat to Uruguay in the final Group H encounter in Qatar, a stern-looking Otto Addo appeared at the post-match press conference willing to badly get something off his chest.
After being introduced to the press, Otto minced no words after a journalist asked if he was going to step down. He answered “I will step down from my position as it was agreed on in May” He was clear in his mind that the news will be no surprise to his employers having stated in many ways before the World Cup that he was still committed to his role at German giants Borussia Dortmund. For the record Otto Addo is a talent coach and second assistant at Dortmund.
He will explain details of his resignation at a presser a day after, but amidst Ghana’s rough 2022 World Cup post-mortem it’s worth noting that Addo left behind a squad that has the potential to reach unthinkable heights in the coming years.
Coming in at such a tricky time, 26 days prior to announcing Otto as Interim Ghana coach ahead of the World Cup qualifiers, the Black Stars had just put up their worst performance at the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon. In Garoua, the Black Stars lost 3-2 to tiny Comoros and rounded up their tournament without recording a win in a group that housed Morocco, Gabon and Comoros.
In the stands that night, many Ghanaians were hopeful the Stars could even draw when goals from Richmond Boakye and Alexander Djiku levelled the game up for Ghana, but Mogni grabbed a winner with five minutes remaining. Ghana exited the group stage of the competition in 2006, failed to go past the round of 16 in 2019, but not winning a single game meant that was on paper the most dreadful performance by the four time African champions.
The man who supervised the debacle, Milovan Rajevac, was fired despite his desire to stay on. Next for Ghana was a tricky World Cup playoff game against Nigeria who exited the AFCON competition in the round of 16 but played much better than Ghana. Addo accepted the job with a huge risk of possibly ending his entire career with the big derby coming up – yes, qualifying to the World Cup will make him a Ghanaian hero but failing will surely be the end of his career on these shores – the unwritten rules were quite clear.
He was appointed as an interim manager alongside two-time Ghana Premier League champion Didi Dramani, Aston Villa U23 coach, George Boateng and the experienced English Premier League manager, Chris Houghton playing the role as a Technical Adviser on February 9.
Romance after the Jollof derby
Otto’s first job was to surmount the Nigerian hurdle or be truly forgotten. His employers where keen as well because, missing the World Cup after a poor showing at the AFCON in the minds of ordinary football fans would “mean not good enough” for the job. Ghanaians were skeptic of the Black Stars because of their poor displays in Cameroon. Ghana settled for a 0-0 draw after VAR overruled a decision to award the Super Eagles a penalty in the first leg of the playoff in Kumasi. A review of the decision in the closing stages of the Jollof derby found that Ghana midfielder Iddrisu Baba was fouled before he handled the ball.
In the return leg in Abuja, a long range shot by Thomas Partey ensured Ghana won the tie (1-1) on away goals to book a ticket to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The World Cup ticket also meant an elevation from interim Ghana coach to substantive manager for Otto Addo – He was going to be at the mundial with his initial 5 man technical team.
Building a new squad
Ghana’s performance against Nigeria looked a lot more organized but was still far from perfect which meant the approaching weeks and months were huge windows for augmenting the squad.
He led a wild charge by the Ghana Football Association to get international players of Ghanaian descent to switch nationality. Four months before competing at the World Cup, the Ghana Football Association announced five new recruits who were now eligible to play for the Black Stars in Qatar.
Brighton & Hove Albion defender Tariq Lamptey, who had played for England Under-21s, Hamburger SV pair Stephan Ambrosius and Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer who both represented Germany Under-21s, Athletic Bilbao forward, Iñaki Williams who played one friendly for Spain, and Germany-based player Patrick Pfeiffer a forward at Darmstadt all committed to Ghana. Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu, who initially turned down a Black Stars call-up, also agreed to be called by the technical handlers of the Black Stars ahead of the 2022 FIFA Mundial in November.
The extensive scouting will ensure that in-form Racing Lens midfielder, Salis Abdul Samed and Club Brugge’s Kamal Sowah will be called for the competition.
Friendlies games against Brazil (0-3), Nicaragua (1-0), Switzerland (2-0) and the Kirin cup in Japan were not enough. But all the technical team had to do was fine tune the team for Qatar. Ghana arrived at the mundial as the lowest ranked team (61st) and the youngest squad.
What had changed under Otto Addo?
I followed Otto Addo’s Black Stars so closely to make key observations that were consistent throughout the tenure. The regard for time massively improved with a mini schedule released 24hours prior. The technical team and players stuck to the rigid schedule and were constantly on time throughout their stay in camps.
Imposed fines institutionalized by the technical team were so strict that even if one of them showed up late, punishment followed. Upon interaction with some members of technical team who had worked with previous Black Stars coaches, the attention to details and major meetings of the Otto Addo regime was novel. At close gauge, I saw the technical team meet close to 4 times a day while in camp physically to deliberate over many issues concerning the team. Even when they were at their respective bases they would jump onto a zoom call for hours to get on the same page regarding many fluid situations.
There was efficient distribution of tasks among the technical team with medical team reporting the latest on the team’s health daily. On the training ground, I could see the four –man technical team work on different aspects of the team. The Black Stars camp felt organized , with players and the technical team very much informed about what was about to happen next . The usual fun including the initiation dances stayed and the camp was usually buzzing.
Lack of Cohesion – bane of World Cup 2022
While the criticism comes in hard for Ghana’s performance at the 2022 World cup, it’s worth reminding ourselves of where this team was coming from.
The standards for judging Ghana at the World Cup must surely be the maiden appearance in 2006 where the team exited at Round of 16 and 2010 when Ghana only missed out on the semifinals. In 2006, Ghana assembled a squad that had formed wonderful bonds and understanding from their days at youth level.
Ghana’s 2001 U20 side produced 7 out of the 23 man squad in Germany 2006. Derek Boateng Sulley muntari, Razak Pimpong, Micheal Essien, John Mensah, John Painstil and Emmanuel Pappoe were all part of the silver winning U 20 world cup squad and made the cut to Germany. These were easily the stars of the world Cup. In Ghana’s crucial do or die game against Czech Republic 5 of them started in crucial areas – Derek Boateng, Sulley Muntari, Michael Essien, John Mensah, John Painstil – and helped Ghana to an important win and the round of 16. The team had formed bonds since their youth playing days and knew each other for well 6 years before the World Cup.
The story of the 2010 World Cup was no different. About half of the 2006 World Cup squad were back in South Africa and with huge experience playing at the top level. Augmenting the squad was a select group of players from Ghana’s 2009 Un 20 World Cup winning team – Samuel Inkoom, Jonathan Mensah, Dominic Adiyah, and Emmanuel Agyemang Badu. Even before the World Cup, the young group had the chance to try out with the seniors at the 2009 CHAN competition and the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations under the same coach – Milovan Rajevac. So the team had the opportunity to strike levels of cohesion before the 2010 World Cup began. The results of 2010 world Cup speaks for itself.
Even in 2014, about 40 percent of the Ghana’s 2010 World Cup made the squad in Brazil. So historically the Black Stars have had teams represent Ghana at the World Cup with history and some experience. However 2022 was the exact opposite.
A World Cup too soon for this squad?
Maybe yes, even though many widely believe Ghana could have made the knock out round. Traditional Ghana does a poor job of keeping squads together irrespective of their age group when competitions end up in disappointment. So after failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup there was real trouble with keeping a consistent squad.
Ghana exited the 2019 AFCON at the round of 16 stage following a defeat to Tunisia which further destabilized the boat. Black Stars failed to win a game at the 2021 AFCON in Cameroun which was termed a disaster. In a short space of time, the Black Stars had seen as many as four coaches ( Kwasi Appiah, CK Akonor, Milovan Rajevac and Otto Addo. That meant continuity was a headache and the nucleus of the Black Stars kept changing.
So the key issue with this assembled group of players for the World Cup was not a lack of quality or potential but lack of playing time together, quite literally. Otto’s men were many miles off the cohesion needed at such a high level competition. All Ghana group opponents (Uruguay, Portugal and South Korea) were at the 2018 World Cup so somewhat had a squad to fall on for cohesion and team chemistry in Qatar.
The nucleus of Ghana’s Squad for the Ghana-Nigeria 2022 World Cup qualifiers appeared to be the blue print around which Coach Otto Addo’s new team would evolve, but there were more additions and subtractions such that the team that started at the World Cup against Portugal had six new faces in Lawrence Ati Zigi , Baba Rahman, Alidu Seidu, Salis Abdul Samed, Inaki Williams and Mohammed Salisu.
These faces were not accidentals, in fact, they were about the framework around which players where introduced deep into games in Qatar. Otto and his team were unlucky with injuries, first and second choice goalkeepers Jojo Wollacot and Richard Ofori picked up knocks, Baba Iddrissu, who had formed a partnership of a sort with Thomas Partey was also unavailable and meant quick replacements. Time to assemble a team after the World Cup qualifiers was rare.
There were two AFCON 2024 qualifiers against Madagascar and Central Africa republic, a Kirin cup tourney in Japan quickly followed, but largely without key players in early June. The next window was in late September and October where Ghana played Brazil and Nicaragua with still some key names missing. The team had to soon Camp for the World Cup and this time, the full squad including newbies like Salis Abdul Samed and Kamal Sowah were drafted in.
The lack of time to play together as a team and find the right understanding on the pitch was pretty obvious but this squad looks promising.
Pregnant with Titles
Ghana’s best performances have come from a well-knit squad with bundles of experience and cohesion developed from competition time together. The 2006 and 2010 World Cup tournaments are perfect examples of this.
The composition of Otto’s squad for the 2022 World Cup inspires more hope for the coming years. The Black Stars squad was the youngest at the mundial with an average age of 26 years. It was also by far the most inexperienced side Ghana has ever assembled for a World Cup with 24 out of the 26 participating at the competition for the first time. Only captain, Andre Dede Ayew and his brother, Jordan Ayew had tasted World Cup action before.
The balance of the squad was another strong reason to believe this team is worth keeping. In the goalkeeping department the absence of Richard Ofori and Jojo Wollacot gave Lawrence Ati Zigi the chance to prove that he’s not far off. In central defense Ghana can boast of Daniel Amartey (Leicester City), Alexander Djiku (Strasbourg), Salisu (Southampton) and Joseph Aidoo (Celta Vigo) who all good and could only get better with time. At right back, Alidu Seidu (Clermont) who starred at the World Cup shares the spot with Tariq Lamptey (Brighton). Even 34-year-old Dennis Odoi (Brugge) offers an option though he may not be around for long.
At left-back the heavily vilified Baba Rahman (Reading) is seconded by Gideon Mensah (Auxerre) who looked great against South Korea. Deep in midfield the partnership between Thomas Partey (Arsenal) and Salis Abdul Samed (Racing Lens) can be nurtured – not forgetting Baba Idrissu (Mallorca) who got injured ahead of the tourney and the Elisha Owusu (Gent KAA) who didn’t feature in Qatar. On the right side of attack, there’s Jordan Ayew (Crsytal Place), Club Brugge’s Kamal Sowah and Sporting’s Fatawu Issahaku who will get much better with time – On the left wing Kamaldeen Sulemana (Rennes), Osman Bukari (Red Star Belgrade), Antoine Semenyo(Bristol City) are all exciting wingers with pace and enough tricks to outwit defenders in one on one situations. Upfront Inaki Williams (Athletic Club) and Dede Ayew (Al Sadd) can do a job.
Surely this team needs few tweaks and more time to develop the right chemistry. The squad managed to win Ghana’s first game at the World Cup since 2010, and suffered together against Portugal and Uruguay. These are key experiences that help the growth of a squad – they have learnt more about each other the hard way and this is invaluable for team this young.
Keep this group together
Expectation for the Ghana at the World Cup went through the roof after a 2-0 win against Switzerland. But in fairness a squad as inexperienced as Otto’s could only punch above their weight to make the knock out phase. The win against South Korea was inspiring and possibly did wet the appetite of many fans who felt making the Round of 16 was a must.
Yes, Ghana could have finished second and played against Brazil in the Round of 16 but nothing more really. It’s time to stop the ranting and let the planning begin around a squad which is pregnant with titles.
Otto Addo has revealed that Ghana did not rejoice after preventing Uruguay from moving on to the round of 16 of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Both teams were eliminated from the competition on Friday when the Black Stars fell to Uruguay 2-0 at Al Janoub Stadium.
After Andre Ayew missed the penalty kick, Giorgio de Arrascaeta scored both goals in the final eight minutes of the first half to end Ghana’s chances of moving on to the second round of the competition.
“I don’t know who said it, but nobody told them what the [South Korea] score was,” Otto Addo said after the game.
“I don’t know how they would know. For us, it was about trying to score. As a coach for more than 12 years, I have had games where we led 3-0 and lost 4-3. Anything can happen.
“I don’t think anyone was thinking about this, but I definitely wasn’t. Everyone saw wild games with goals in the last minutes. We just wanted to equalise, which would have gotten us through.”
The Managing Editor of the Daily Dispatch newspaper, Ben Ephson, has urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to engage coaches who will be committed to the Black Stars team and the country.
He attributed this to the fact that the former Black Stars coach, Otto Addo, was signed to lead the team while under contract with an international football club.
According to Ben Ephson in an interview on Prime Morning, Monday, this caused Otto Addo to be less committed to the task at hand.
“So, I think that also should teach us a lesson. If we want to have a coach, we shouldn’t have a coach who will have one step in Ghana as our coach, waiting to go back. He will be a bit reckless. That should be a lesson to Ghana to get a coach who will be fully committed. We should never get a coach who is going to be part-time, whether we succeed or not,” he urged GFA.
He further suggested that, “perhaps if Otto Addo the coach had resigned from his contract with Dortmund, he may have been a bit more careful. Because he knew that he was in as a short term, and I’m sure if Ghana had progressed and even won the World Cup, he would have had to go back to Dortmund to complete his 3-year term with the club.”
He stated that signing coaches who are fully committed and have the interests of the team and the country at heart, will enable the coaches to work harder to achieve positive results.
Mr. Ephson further indicated that there is no motivation for coaches who have half an interest in the country, as they will have to return to their initial contracted club.
He also noted that signing Otto Addo, who already had a contract with a different club, was an “elementary” mistake Ghana made.
The Ghana Black Stars exited the ongoing 2022 World Cup in Qatar after losing 2-0 to Uruguay on Friday, December 2, 2022.
Mr. Ben Ephson opined that Uruguay easily scored against Ghana due to poor player selection on the part of Otto Addo.
Contrary to claims that some players were selected for the World Cup upon the request of Kurt Okraku, Otto Addo who resigned as Black Stars coach less than an hour after Ghana’s defeat has refuted that claim.
According to the Borussia Dortmund assistant coach, Kurt Okraku gave him free hands to do the work as he deemed fit and he is grateful for the trust and the opportunity to serve.
“I want to thank the President Kurt Okraku for giving me this chance and for letting me do my work the way I wanted, I really appreciate this. This was the best circumstance I would like to work,” Otto Addo said at his post-match conference quoted by footballghana.com.
“We have to thank the Almighty God for giving us this opportunity and for giving us a team like this. I am very, very proud of the boys, they gave their all. Sometimes it’s bad luck, this is also part of football.”
“I would like to thank the whole technical staff for supporting me in the best way they could. This was a really solid and loyal unit, everybody worked a lot, nobody sees this. There was a lot of work behind the scenes preparing for this World Cup and also preparing for the qualification,” he added.
Otto Addo supervised 12 games as the head coach of the Black Stars since he was appointed as the interim manager to lead the team for the FIFA World Cup playoffs against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in March 2022.
He won three out of the 12 games, lost five, and drew the remaining four matches which include the doubleheader against the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
The Black Stars were eliminated after the first round of the tournament following a 2-0 defeat to Uruguay.
After defeating South Korea in their second group game, the Black Stars needed a draw or win against Uruguay to advance to the last 16 stage.
But the team failed to negotiate for points against their ‘enemies’ Uruguay.
At the post-match conference, the Germany-based trainer announced he has stepped down as coach of the Black Stars to concentrate on his role as the talent development coach of Dortmund.
“It was always clear that I would stop after the World Cup. My family and I see our role in Germany. I like my life at (Borussia) Dortmund (where he works as a talent coach, and wants to carry on there.” he said.
Below are some reactions from Nigerian football fanatics:
Super eagle’s coaches will never resign. They prefer to die there
9ja coach no dey ever resign
He actually did what he was hired to do😂. Get Ghana to qualify for the world cup thereafter, he became clueless😂😂😂
The dude will rather be an assistant than a national team coach 😢 he’s not confident, always making panic subs
He did well within a short period. Kudos to him.
Respect to him. He did well
He did his best, I guess
He don try. Would have courageously continued, thou. he wrote.
Although Kwesi Appiah was the first Ghanaian coach to lead the Black Stars to the World Cup, he never won a match with the team but Otto Addo led the Black Stars to their first victory under a Ghanaian coach at the World Cup.
However, Dan Kwaku Yeboah argues Otto Addo cannot be said to be a better coach than Kwasi Appiah.
He argued that Kwasi Appiah faced harsh treatment during his time which he believes Otto Addo wouldn’t have survived.
“My primary teacher taught me that the best way to compare two things is to give them the same platform. In 2022 Nana Addo’s government never assured that players would be paid during their training tour neither did he say they would be paid in Doha so there is no need to compare,” Dan Kwaku Yeboah said.
“I have read posts from people saying that Otto Addo has done better than Kwasi Appiah, but if Otto Addo experienced what Kwesi Appiah went through maybe we would have conceded 20 goals. Government made every provision available” he added.
The 47-year-old is expected to vacate his position as the coach of the senior national team and return to Borussia Dortmund when his short-term contract expires at the end of December.
Black Stars crashed out of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar after finishing bottom of Group H with three points, losing to Uruguay in their final group game on Friday.
“We have to thank the Almighty God for giving us this opportunity and for giving us a team like this. I am very, very proud of the boys, they gave their all. Sometimes its bad luck, this is also part of football,” Otto Addo said in a press briefing in Doha.
“It’s the ugly side of football, sometimes you are lucky, sometimes you are not lucky. But they did all they can and sometimes it’s not in your hands.
He added, “I want to thank the President Kurt Okraku for giving me this chance and for letting me do my work the way I wanted, I really appreciate this. This was the best circumstance I would like to work.”
“I would like to thank the whole technical staff for supporting me in the best way they could. This was a really solid and loyal unit, everybody worked a lot, nobody sees this. There was a lot of work behind the scenes preparing for this World Cup and also preparing for the qualification.”
Otto Addo has disclosed that there were lots of negatives surrounding his appointment as Ghana coach.
The 47-year-old announced on Friday that he would be leaving his role as Ghana coach following the team’s exit from the 2022 World Cup.
He replaced Milovan Rajevac in February, initially as interim boss, and was given a deal until the end of December.
“I would never understand the mentality of those who think against a human to fail, and there are some humans doing this, I would never understand it,” coach Otto Addo said at a press conference after Ghana’s elimination from the World Cup.
“I don’t fear any of your critics, I’m so long in the game and I’m used to this. For me, it is not a problem, I don’t fear anything, just God.”
‘It’s easy when we lose, the first question is why did you do this and that, but when we win no questions come against me.”
Coach Otto Addo won four games during his time with the Black Stars, beating Madagascar and South Korea in competitive games with the other victories coming against Nicaragua and Switzerland in friendlies.
Ghana crashed out of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar after finishing bottom of Group H with three points.
Black Stars lost two games and won one, amassing three points.
Otto Addo says he left his position as coach of Ghana in order to continue working for Borussia Dortmund as a talent developer.
The 47-year-old made his resignation known after the Black Stars were eliminated from the 2022 World Cup in the group stage following their 2-0 loss to Uruguay on Friday.
After Serbian coach Milovan Rajevac was fired following a terrible performance at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon, Addo took up the Ghana post in February.
“It has not got to do with the outcome of the result [Ghana’s World Cup elimination]. It would have ended if we were world champions. I have to respect the contract. I have to respect the club I am working for.” Addo told the media in Doha.”
“Surely maybe one day I will get the chance to work with the GFA again but for the next two and half years, I have a contract with Dortmund and I have to respect that,” he added.
After the Black Stars defeated Nigeria in the play-off round in March, Addo led them to the 2022 World Cup.
“We’re content here in Germany, my family and I.
Even if we win the World Cup and are crowned champions, I indicated I would stand down following the event.
As coach for Ghana, I have quit “In an after-match interview, Otto Addo told the media.
The Ghana Football Association has apologised to Ghanaians for the Black Stars’ inability to progress to the knockout stage of the 2022 World Cup tournament in Qatar.
“We regret our inability to progress to the knockout phase of the competition and offer our profound apologies to the government, the people of Ghana and all stakeholders across the globe,” part of its statement read.
The Authority, shortly after Ghana was dazed by Uruguay by two goals to nil on Friday, released a statement reacting to the disappointing performance exhibited by the Stars.
According to the GFA, “valuable lessons have been learnt from our qualification and participation in the tournament and aim to continue with the positives going into the future.”
— Ghana Football Association (@ghanafaofficial) December 3, 2022
They expressed gratitude to the government, the Ghanaian people, the football family, corporate Ghana, esteemed sponsors and supporters for their “unflinching, unwavering and unalloyed support during the Black Stars FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 campaign.”
Meanwhile, the GFA has announced that it would in due course inform all stakeholders about any further developments concerning the Black Stars.
This has become imperative as the Black Stars are without a coach following the resignation of Otto Addo, who will now be focusing on Borussia Dortmund.
The warning signs had been there, and if the disastrous performance against Brazil wasn’t enough to convince Otto Addo that certain players, regardless of their pedigree and reputation, needed to be benched, then the exhibition match against Switzerland and Portugal in the first Group H match should have.
It makes sense for a coach in charge of a young club to place his faith in the few seasoned players on the roster, but Otto Addo’s trusted players have consistently disappointed, especially when it counts the most.
There is the excuse of leadership and inspiration to be made for Andre Ayew but the obvious truth is that when it comes to what matters most which is producing performance worthy of satisfactory remarks, Andre Ayew has failed, not once, not twice, countless times in the last three years.
As far as the Black Stars and most national teams are concerned, this is not a new phenomenon but this is where a coach is expected to be bold, overlook the stardom and pick less-popular players who deliver in national colors.
The Switzerland game should have provided the blueprint for how Otto Addo was going to deal with the Partey situation.
To be honest it is not an easy move to make and it is one which if not handled properly could upset the dressing room but after that performance by Salis and Elisha Owusu against Switzerland and Partey’s underwhelming performance against Portugal, Otto Addo should have drawn the line. Instead he remained loyal to a global star who once again delivered the opposite of his Arsenal form against Uruguay.
And Baba Rahman.
There is the conspiracy theory that he gets into the team because of his association with some key members within the Ghana Football Association but assuming without admitting that it is the truth, such influence, regardless of who it is coming will not be enough to get him into the starting team unless the coach himself is party to whatever scheme there is.
So regardless of what you think, Baba Rahman presence in the team is the sole decision of coach Otto Addo and the fact that he was drafted into the team after Gideon Mensah’s telling performance against South Korea shows the loyalty and faith Otto Addo had in him.
In return of Otto Addo’s loyalty, the Reading player has persistently displayed disastrous football which once again came alive in the game against Uruguay.
Baba Rahman’s was exposed and the Uruguayans had a field day cooking their attacks from that side. Unfortunately for him, his wing partner Jordan Ayew after that headline-grabbing performance against South Korea went back to default settings.
Inaki Williams came into the team with so much promise and it was understandable as the Black Stars lacked a player of his stature in the attacking area but in three games played at the World Cup where he played mainly in two positions, the Athletic Bilbao forward who switched allegiance from Spain to Ghana failed to deliver.
In all three games, two of which he played as a striker, not once did he hit a shot that was saved by the goalkeeper. Inaki had no shot on target in three games for the Black Stars and he was Otto Addo’s lead striker. How ridiculous.
The Ghana team showed so much promise and there is enough reason to be positive about the future but the undeniable truth is that Otto Addo’s blind loyalty led us into this ditch.
