Why GFA, Sports Ministry failed to extend Carlos Queiroz’s stay as Black Stars coach

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is currently looking for a new head coach for the Black Stars after negotiations for Carlos Queiroz's contract extension reached an impasse. Queiroz, who took the helm in April on a temporary agreement, led Ghana to the 2026 FIFA World Cup following Otto Addo's departure. The Portuguese coach, 73, reportedly commanded a monthly income of $80,000, yet he requested a significant raise to $150,000 upon talks for a longer-term commitment.

Furthermore, Queiroz reportedly demanded the addition of foreign technical staff members for continuity initiatives, leading to a standstill in negotiations. The GFA, along with other parties, is now scouting alternative options ahead of Ghana's upcoming competitive matches. According to several sources, first-team assistant coach Desmond Ofei is a leading contender to step into the head coach role should the GFA decide against retaining Queiroz.

Should Ofei be appointed, he would become the seventh head coach under Kurt Okraku's tenure as GFA president. This coaching dilemma arrives at a critical juncture for Ghana, with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers looming. The Black Stars are set to resume competitive play in September, having failed to qualify for the 2023 AFCON in Morocco.

Ghana is now bracing for a Group C draw in the AFCON qualifiers, which includes Côte d'Ivoire, The Gambia, and Somalia. The GFA is facing mounting pressure to resolve the lack of clarity surrounding the Black Stars' coaching leadership and to appoint a coach who can steer the team through the qualifying process.