Beyond Queiroz’s exit: Ghana football needs accountability, reform — not another quick fix

Ghana’s football crisis extends beyond the coach's position. After a string of six coaches in seven years, the national team, clubs, and domestic league have all faltered. The recent loss against The Gambia, coupled with Carlos Queiroz’s resignation, has ignited calls for accountability and reform. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and government are now confronting the deeper issues: governance, accountability, and development.

The GFA's Executive Council met to strategize, but simply changing coaches won't suffice. The Gambia defeat has sparked outrage, with supporters demanding accountability. While the resignation of the GFA President or dissolution of the FA structure may be politically tempting, it won't solve the structural problems. Ghana's football has slid from AFCON semi-finalists to consecutive group-stage exits, and missed out on the 2025 World Cup.

Coaching turnover has been high, but that alone doesn't explain the decline. Allegations of internal influence in player selections and personal interests warrant investigation. The issues run deeper, affecting youth teams, clubs, and the CHAN competition. The domestic league and talent pipeline have suffered, leading to Ghanaian clubs' struggles at major tournaments.

The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) advocates for comprehensive reforms, including a review of national-team management, clear accountability, transparent appointments, and reviving the domestic league. The government also has a role in supervising public funds without interfering. The Gambia loss is a wake-up call for Ghana football.

To restore integrity and confidence, the system must be opened to scrutiny, the domestic game strengthened, and the reliance on short-term solutions minimized.