Former head coach of the Black Stars, Carlos Queiroz, has urged Ghanaians to back the players despite recent poor results. He made this statement after being relieved of his role as the team's gaffer on October 1, following Ghana's 4-2 defeat to Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium. Queiroz had been hoping to improve the team's performance, but the results from the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers led to his departure.
The Portuguese trainer, who previously managed Real Madrid, expressed his gratitude to the Ghanaian people and Black Stars supporters for their passion, support, and warmth. He emphasized that the team has talent and potential, and with unity, support, and the right environment, this generation can achieve great things for Ghana. Queiroz's statement was a message of encouragement to the fans, asking them to believe in and protect the players.
The Black Stars have had a disappointing start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, losing their first two games to Cote d'Ivoire and Gambia. They currently sit at the bottom of their group without any points. The team's poor performance has put pressure on the Ghana Football Association (GFA), with some calling for changes in the team's management.
Carlos Queiroz's tenure as Black Stars coach was marked by high expectations, but ultimately, the team's results did not meet those expectations. His departure has sparked discussions about the team's future and the need for reforms within the GFA. The Parliamentary Sports Committee has invited the Ministry and GFA to discuss the team's struggles.
The Black Stars' struggles have also raised concerns about the welfare of the players. Ernest Thompson, a member of the team's management, alleged that the players' health conditions were ignored ahead of the Gambia game. This has led to calls for better management and support for the players.
The GFA has faced criticism for its handling of the team's affairs, with some calling for its dissolution. Former Youth and Sports Minister, Emmanuel Osei, questioned Carlos Queiroz's appointment process, alleging possible corruption. The team's poor performance has also led to concerns about the state of football in Ghana.
Despite the challenges facing the Black Stars, Carlos Queiroz remains optimistic about the team's potential. He urged Ghanaians to support the players, emphasizing that with unity and the right environment, they can achieve great things. The team's next round of fixtures will be crucial in determining their chances of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz urges Ghanaians to believe in and support the Black Stars players despite recent poor results.
- The Black Stars have lost their first two games of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, sitting at the bottom of their group.
- Carlos Queiroz's departure has sparked discussions about the team's future and the need for reforms within the GFA.