The Ghana Football Association has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars, effective immediately, for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 73-year-old Portuguese tactician replaces Otto Addo, who departed in March after losses to Austria and Germany. Queiroz was selected from over 600 applicants, primarily due to his extensive World Cup experience. Born in Mozambique in 1953, he brings decades of international coaching experience. Ghana open their Group L campaign on June 17 against Panama in Toronto, before facing England and Croatia—a highly competitive group stage.
Career Overview and World Cup Pedigree
Carlos Queiroz is renowned for his exceptional World Cup record, making this his fifth consecutive tournament appearance as coach. He coached Portugal’s youth teams to FIFA U20 World Cup titles in 1989 and 1991, developing talents like Luis Figo and Rui Costa. He took South Africa to the 2002 World Cup, led Portugal to the Round of 16 in 2010, and managed Iran at three consecutive World Cup tournaments (2014, 2018, 2022).
At club level, he was Real Madrid head coach in 2003-04, winning the Spanish Super Cup. He served as Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Manchester United twice (2002-2003 and 2004-2008), playing a key role in winning the 2008 Champions League. His longest national team tenure was with Iran (2011-2019, 2022), making him the longest-serving coach in Iran’s football history. He also managed Colombia and Egypt before Oman.
Carlos Queiroz – International Coaching Record
| Team | Period | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Portugal | 2010 | Round of 16 |
| South Africa | 2000-01 | 2002 World Cup qualified |
| Iran | 2011-19, 2022 | 3 World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022) |
| Colombia | 2019-20 | Copa America first place |
| Ghana | 2026- | Current assignment |
Ghana’s Challenging Group and Tournament Context
Ghana are drawn in Group L with England, Croatia, and Panama. The campaign opens June 17 against Panama in Toronto, followed by England on June 23 in Foxborough and Croatia on June 27 in Philadelphia. Before the main tournament, Ghana play warm-up matches against Mexico (May 22) and Wales (June 2). The 48-team World Cup is hosted across USA, Canada, and Mexico, beginning June 11, 2026.
Ghana qualified by progressing through a group containing Madagascar, Mali, CAR, Comoros, and Chad. Queiroz’s appointment comes after Otto Addo’s departure, seeking stability before the tournament. The GFA structured the appointment as short-term through the World Cup, with re-evaluation planned afterward.
Queiroz’s Statement and Mission
Queiroz stated: “This is not just another job—it is a mission. I accept this mission with the same passion and commitment that have guided me throughout my career. Ghana is a nation of talent, pride, and footballing soul.” His statement reflects understanding of the position’s significance and expectations to restore confidence and deliver results.
His immediate focus is implementing tactical discipline and rebuilding team unity after Addo’s departure. Queiroz’s experience organizing teams against stronger opposition positions him well for the challenge, though the compressed timeline before the World Cup presents significant obstacles.
Other Candidates and Selection Process
Queiroz beat several candidates including Slaven Bilic (57, former West Ham) who held direct talks, and Herve Renard (won AFCON with Zambia 2012 and Ivory Coast 2015). Reports suggest the GFA may eye Renard for longer-term role post-World Cup.
Kwesi Appiah (Sudan manager, former Black Stars coach) faced obstacles due to his relationship with GFA president Kurt Okraku. Other candidates included Tom Saintfiet (led Gambia to 2021 AFCON quarterfinals) and Kim Lars Bjorkgren. Queiroz’s extensive World Cup experience ultimately proved decisive.
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