Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz was introduced as the new Black Stars coach on Thursday as he addressed the media ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Carlos Queiroz has officially been unveiled as the new head coach of Ghana’s senior national team, the Black Stars, following a brief but eventful arrival in the country.

The Portuguese tactician touched down in Accra on Wednesday before holding a meeting with the Minister for Sports, Kofi Adams, on Thursday morning.

He was later presented to the media at the Alisa Hotel, where he addressed the nation for the first time as Ghana coach.

Continuity in the technical team

One of the key areas clarified during the unveiling was the composition of Queiroz’s backroom staff. Ghana Football Association Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, confirmed that several members of the existing technical team will remain in place.

“Among the technical team members staying on are assistant coach Desmond Offei, goalkeepers trainer Fatawu Dauda, and high-performance coach John Paintsil,” he revealed.

The decision ensures some level of continuity as Queiroz begins work with limited time ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

‘My biggest challenge yet’

Despite a decorated managerial career that includes spells with global giants like Manchester United, Real Madrid and the Portugal national team, Queiroz described the Ghana job as the toughest test he has faced.

“I have handled many teams in my career, but this is the biggest challenge I have ever faced,” he said.

“Since arriving, I have felt the enormous soul of the Black Stars, and that means the dreams and expectations are equally huge. I’m ready for it. Let’s do it together.”

He added: “To be part of this sports family is an honour and a privilege for me. To lead this African country to the World Cup will be an unforgettable memory in my life.”

A clear philosophy: winning

Queiroz takes charge at a difficult moment for Ghana, who are on a run of four consecutive defeats. However, the 71-year-old was unequivocal about his approach.

“My players must be ready to fight and win. It’s not about promises. What I guarantee is that we will play to win,” he stated.

“The only medicine for Ghana football and the world is to win. In this moment, 99.9% of my focus is on success at the World Cup.

“Ghana will not only be a country of football, but a country of champions.”

Open competition for places

On player selection, Queiroz made it clear that reputation or location will not guarantee a place in his squad.

“A national team is a house without windows and doors. There are no shortcuts into it,” he explained.

“Whether you play locally or abroad is irrelevant; what matters is quality. If local players show they are good enough, they will absolutely be included.

“Nobody owns the national team shirt. It’s my job to give a fair opportunity. It’s my job that the ones that wear the jersey truly deserve it.”

Boost for local players

With time not on his side, Queiroz has already requested that the Ghana Football Association assemble the best locally based players under the Black Galaxies setup.

The move will allow him to closely monitor and assess talent, with standout performers potentially earning places in his provisional World Cup squad.

Carlos Queiroz arrived in Ghana for the first time on Wednesday, April 23Samuello/SaySports

Currently, about 35 players are in camp under coach Kassim Ocansey, preparing for the friendly scheduled for May 22nd.

Players such as Benjamin Asare and Salim Adams are expected to feature, as they push to impress and secure spots in the Black Stars squad.

Some of these players could even feature in Ghana’s upcoming friendly against Mexico in May.

The road ahead

Attention now shifts to preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ghana are scheduled to face Mexico and Wales in high-profile friendlies, with discussions ongoing for a final preparatory match against an opponent from a similar region to Panama.

At the tournament, Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Panama and Croatia.

With expectations high and time short, the new Black Stars coach has his work cut out for him as he looks to help Ghana go past the group stage for the first time since 2010.

Owuraku Ampofo

Ghanamma.com

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