Ghana Appoints Carlos Queiroz as Black Stars Coach Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Accra, 14 April 2026
Ghana has selected Carlos Queiroz, the 73-year-old Portuguese tactician and former Manchester United assistant, to lead the Black Stars into the 2026 World Cup. With extensive international experience managing teams at four previous World Cups, Queiroz faces the challenge of preparing Ghana for their Group L matches against Panama, England, and Croatia in just over two months.
A Seasoned Tactician Takes the Helm
The Ghana Football Association’s Executive Council, working alongside key stakeholders, confirmed Queiroz’s appointment on Monday, 13 April 2026 [1][2]. The Portuguese coach replaces Otto Addo, who was dismissed on 31 March following disappointing friendly defeats against Germany and Austria during the March international window [1][3]. Queiroz was selected from more than 600 candidates, highlighting the rigorous search process undertaken by Ghanaian football authorities [8]. The experienced tactician expressed his commitment to the role, stating: ‘I accept this mission with the same passion and commitment that have guided me throughout my career. Ghana is a nation of talent, pride, and footballing soul. I arrive with respect for its history and belief in its future’ [1].
World Cup Pedigree and International Experience
Queiroz brings remarkable international tournament experience to the Black Stars, having participated in four World Cups as a coach [3][8]. His World Cup journey includes leading South Africa to qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, guiding Portugal to the knockout phase in 2010, and managing Iran at both the 2014 and 2018 tournaments [2][8]. Beyond World Cup experience, the Mozambique-born coach has held positions with Egypt, Japan, Colombia, Qatar, and most recently Oman, though he departed the latter role last month after they failed to qualify for the World Cup [1][2]. His tenure at Manchester United saw him serve as Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant during two separate periods: 2002-2003 and 2004-2008, either side of a stint as Real Madrid head coach [1].
Community Support and Unity Call
Former Ghana Football Association Vice President Fred Pappoe has emerged as a vocal advocate for unity behind the new appointment, emphasising the critical need for collective support as Ghana prepares for the expanded 48-team World Cup tournament [3]. Speaking to Adom FM, Pappoe stressed the importance of backing Queiroz given the limited preparation time available: ‘We have limited time for the World Cup, and if you look into the list available and you check our pocket, I believe we have to rally behind whoever has been appointed’ [3]. He highlighted Queiroz’s extensive credentials, noting: ‘He has been at the World Cup four times, and we don’t have to focus on the negatives, but rather support him’ [3]. This call for unity comes as Ghana seeks to improve upon previous underwhelming World Cup performances in 2014 and 2022 [3].
Tournament Preparation and Group Challenges Ahead
Queiroz begins his duties immediately, with Ghana scheduled to play preparatory matches against Mexico and Wales on 2 June before the tournament commences [3][8]. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, kicks off on 11 June 2026 [2]. Ghana will open their Group L campaign against Panama on 17 June in Toronto, Canada, before facing England on 23 June outside Boston and Croatia on 27 June in Philadelphia [1][2][3][8]. This marks Ghana’s fifth World Cup appearance, with the Black Stars drawn into a challenging group that includes former World Cup winners England and Croatia, alongside CONCACAF representatives Panama [3][GPT]. The expanded tournament format provides additional opportunities, but Queiroz faces the immediate task of transforming a squad that failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations under previous management [1][3].