Ghana Hires Carlos Queiroz to Revive World Cup Hopes

Ghana has turned to veteran coach Carlos Queiroz in a high-stakes move aimed at reviving the national team ahead of the next World Cup campaign.

The 73-year-old Portuguese manager replaces Otto Addo, who was dismissed on March 31 following a disappointing run that included friendly defeats to Germany and Austria. The Black Stars had already suffered a major blow after failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, intensifying pressure on the Ghana Football Association to act quickly.

Queiroz arrives with decades of experience across club and international football, a résumé that suggests Ghana is prioritising stability and tactical discipline over experimentation at a critical moment.

A seasoned hand for a struggling side

Best known for his time working under Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, Queiroz also had a stint as head coach of Real Madrid. On the international stage, he has managed multiple teams, including Portugal, Iran, Egypt, Colombia, and South Africa.

His most recent role was with Oman, where he narrowly missed out on World Cup qualification before stepping down last month.

Speaking after his appointment, Queiroz struck an optimistic tone, describing Ghana as “a nation of talent, pride, and footballing soul,” while expressing confidence in the team’s future.

Eta makes history as first woman to manage men’s team in Europe’s top five leagues

World Cup pressure already building

Ghana’s task now is immediate and demanding. Drawn into a competitive group, the team will open its World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England and Croatia in quick succession.

The tournament, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, leaves little room for adjustment, meaning Queiroz must quickly impose structure and belief on a squad that has struggled for consistency.

For Ghana, this appointment is more than just another coaching change; it is a calculated gamble that experience can steady a team in transition and restore its reputation on the global stage.