Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz has returned to Ghana for a second spell as coach of the Black Stars, and has outlined a long-term vision to rebuild the team. Queiroz, who led Ghana at the 2026 World Cup, aims to create a team capable of qualifying for and competing at the 2030 FIFA World Cup. He believes the rebuilding process must begin with the ongoing 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The 2027 AFCON qualifiers will provide the starting point for another phase of rebuilding, with Queiroz looking to establish a core of players who can form the backbone of the national team in the years ahead. Ghana begin their qualifying campaign against Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday before hosting The Gambia in Accra on September 29. Queiroz's plans have already been affected by injuries and withdrawals, with several key players unavailable for the opening qualifier.
Mohammed Kudus has withdrawn from the squad to continue his recovery, while Thomas Partey was not called up due to a hamstring problem. Lorient defender Nathaniel Adjei has also pulled out through injury. Despite the setbacks, Queiroz believes the Black Stars must use the current period to build a squad with the depth and quality needed to compete beyond the immediate AFCON campaign.
Queiroz's long-term plan involves laying the foundations for the next generation of the Black Stars. He emphasizes that the rebuilding process must be done step by step, with a focus on establishing a strong team capable of competing at the highest level. The 2030 World Cup is the target, and Queiroz is determined to use the current cycle to lay the groundwork for a successful campaign.
The Portuguese coach has a significant challenge ahead of him, but he is confident that Ghana can achieve his goals. Queiroz has experience in rebuilding teams and has a track record of success. He will work closely with his coaching staff and the Ghana Football Association to identify and develop young talent, and to create a team that can compete with the best in Africa and the world.
Ghana's immediate focus is on the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, but Queiroz's vision is long-term. He wants to create a sustainable team that can achieve success over a prolonged period. The 2030 World Cup is a realistic target, and Queiroz is determined to make it a reality. With his experience and expertise, he has a good chance of achieving his goals.
Queiroz's return to Ghana has generated significant interest, and his long-term plan has been welcomed by fans and stakeholders. The Black Stars have a rich history, and Queiroz is determined to add to that history by achieving success on the pitch. His focus on youth development and long-term planning is a positive step towards creating a sustainable team that can compete at the highest level.
Key points
- Carlos Queiroz aims to rebuild the Black Stars for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
- The 2027 AFCON qualifiers will be a key part of Queiroz's rebuilding process.
- Injuries and withdrawals have affected Queiroz's plans, but he remains confident in his team's ability to achieve his goals.
