The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed that it has mutually agreed to part ways with Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz. This decision comes after Ghana's disappointing start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Black Stars lost their opening two matches against Ivory Coast and The Gambia. The GFA stated that both parties agreed to terminate Queiroz's contract following discussions held in a spirit of mutual respect.
Ghana's poor performance in the qualifiers led to increased pressure on Queiroz and his technical team. The team suffered a 2-0 defeat by Ivory Coast in Bouake and a 4-2 loss to The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium. These back-to-back defeats sparked growing calls for the Portuguese coach to leave his position. The GFA and Queiroz ultimately decided that ending their professional relationship was the most appropriate course of action.
In a statement confirming the decision, Queiroz expressed gratitude to the GFA, his technical staff, the players, and supporters for their backing during his time in charge. He also urged Ghanaians to continue supporting the current generation of Black Stars players. Queiroz emphasized that the talent and potential are there, and with unity, support, and the right environment, this generation can achieve great things for Ghana.
Queiroz was appointed in April this year on a short-term contract to lead Ghana into the 2026 World Cup, replacing Otto Addo. He successfully guided the Black Stars to the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time since 2010. This prompted the GFA to retain him beyond the tournament. However, his tenure has now ended after Ghana's poor start to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
The 74-year-old coach reiterated his commitment to Ghana and its national team. He stated that Ghana comes first, the Black Stars come first, and Ghanaian football comes first. Queiroz thanked Ghana and expressed his hopes for the future. His statement concluded on a positive note, leaving a lasting impression on Ghanaian football.
The GFA is expected to announce details of the interim coaching arrangements in the coming days. This will provide clarity on the team's future and the plans in place to move forward. The Black Stars, a four-time African champion, currently have no points from their opening two matches.
The mutual agreement between the GFA and Queiroz marks the end of his tenure as head coach of the Black Stars. Key points include:
Key points
- The GFA and Carlos Queiroz mutually agreed to part ways following Ghana's poor start to the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
- Queiroz was appointed in April this year on a short-term contract and successfully led the Black Stars to the 2026 World Cup knockout stage.
- The GFA will announce interim coaching arrangements in the coming days to move forward with the team.
