Carlos Queiroz leaves Ghana for second time in three months post-World Cup

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today.

Carlos Queiroz has left his role as Ghana manager for the second time in three months after a disastrous start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Queiroz, 73, was named head coach of the Black Stars two months out from the World Cup, succeeding Otto Addo who was sacked following emphatic defeats by Austria and Germany.

The former Manchester United assistant manager guided Ghana through the group stage, which included a goalless draw with England, before they were knocked out by Colombia in the round of 32.

He stepped down immediately after the country’s elimination before making a shock return to the Ghana setup at the beginning of September.

But after suffering back-to-back defeats to Ivory Coast and the Gambia in Afcon qualifying, Queiroz has left Ghana again by mutual decision.

“This was not an easy decision, but both parties agreed that, under the present circumstances, ending our professional relationship was the most appropriate course of action, with the interests of Ghana, the Black Stars and Ghanaian football above everything else,” he said in a statement.

“It has been an honour to serve Ghana and the Black Stars. I sincerely thank the Ghana Football Association and particularly its President for their trust and for the opportunity to lead such a proud football nation.

“I came to Ghana determined to help build a stronger future for the Black Stars and support the development of the country’s talent. Despite our commitment and efforts, the necessary conditions were not fully established, and our recent performance added to the decision to bring this journey to an end.”

Amid a down period in Ghana’s footballing history, having enduring the humiliation of not qualifying for Afcon 2025, a knockouts finish in the World Cup was hardly a failure for Queiroz.

But with the aim of returning to Africa’s continental finals, Ghana and Queiroz, who previously managed Portugal, Iran and Egypt at World Cups, have parted ways once more.

“I leave with respect, gratitude and pride,” he added. “I thank my technical staff and everyone who supported us, particularly since the start of our work, preparing World Cup 2026.

“Above all, I pay tribute to the players of the Black Stars. Thank you to all of them who represented Ghana with courage, commitment and pride. You fought for your country and carried the hopes of millions.

“Believe in these players. Protect them. Support them. The talent and potential are there. With unity, support and the right environment, this generation can achieve great things for Ghana.

“To the Ghanaian people and all Black Stars supporters, thank you for your passion, support and warmth. I will always carry Ghana with me with respect and affection. Ghana comes first. The Black Stars come first. Ghanaian football comes first.”

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in