In the wake of Chris Hughton’s departure as the head coach of the Black Stars, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) is gearing up for a new era, marked by a meticulously outlined roadmap to appoint the next tactician.
This significant move comes as the GFA aims to revitalize and reposition the national football team for success on the international stage after an early exit in two AFCON tournaments. Ghana left the 33rd edition in Cameroon with one point and the 34th edition in Ivory Coast with 2 points.
The GFA, in an official announcement on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, revealed its strategic plan, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to ensure the selection of a coach who aligns with the vision and goals of Ghanaian football.
At the heart of this process is the establishment of a five-member search committee, entrusted with the crucial task of identifying, evaluating, and recommending the ideal candidate for approval by the Executive Council.
Leading this search committee is Mark Addo, the Vice President of the Ghana Football Association, who brings a wealth of experience and insight to guide the selection process. Assisting him in this pivotal role is the Vice Chairman, Ace Ankomah (Esq.), a distinguished Legal Practitioner and law lecturer, adding a layer of legal acumen to the committee’s proceedings.
Joining them are three eminent personalities from the realm of football and sports administration. Professor Joseph Kwame Mintah, the Director of Coaching Education of the GFA, brings an academic perspective to coaching methodologies. Opoku Nti, a Ghanaian football legend, injects a deep understanding of the game’s nuances and requirements. William Caesar Kartey, Chief Director of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, contributes valuable insights from a governmental perspective.
The Executive Council will consider the search committee’s recommendation for the next Black Stars coach within the next three weeks.
Below is the criteria for the selection of the next head coach:
- The potential Head Coach should be a proven winner in coaching Top Men’s National Team or Club Football
- Must have a football philosophy that aligns or compliments our DNA
- Must hold the highest football license in the world with over 15 years coaching experience
- Proven track record in team reconstruction, organization, and development of young talent
- Proven disciplinarian, tactician, and leadership skills