Black Stars video analyst and set-piece coach Gregory De Grauwe has exclusively told Footy-Africa that he hopes his new role with Saudi Pro League side Al Kholood will not mark the end of his work with Ghana’s national team.
De Grauwe has joined Al Kholood as the club’s first-team set-piece coach but will continue working with the Black Stars, with his new employers supporting his international duties.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, the Belgian described the move to Saudi Arabia as an exciting opportunity to work on set pieces on a daily basis.
“It’s a very big opportunity for me. Being involved with set pieces day in, day out and being on the training pitch is what I love most. Saudi football is growing quickly, and there is a lot of ambition here, so professionally it is a very exciting step for me,” De Grauwe said.
He also credited his experience with Ghana for helping him secure the new opportunity.
“I’m also very grateful for my work with Ghana, because the experiences I’ve had with the Black Stars have definitely helped me grow and contributed to opportunities like this,” he added.
De Grauwe, who joined the Black Stars technical team in March 2025, said he remains committed to Ghana and hopes to continue working with the national team.
“I wouldn’t really call them my final words, because I truly hope my journey with Ghana is not finished. If Ghana wants me to continue, I would be very happy and proud to do so,” he said.
De Grauwe reveals how Ghana mastered set pieces on road to 2026 World Cup
He revealed that continuing his work with Ghana was an important consideration during negotiations with Al Kholood.
“This was also important in the negotiations with the new team. I’m really thankful to the club that they support my work with the national team,” he said.
Reflecting on his 20 months with the Black Stars, De Grauwe said the experience has been significant both professionally and personally.
“These last 20 months have meant a lot to me, not only professionally but also personally. From the first moment, I have always felt very welcome and appreciated. I genuinely love being with the team and being part of the Black Stars,” he said.
“I’m very grateful for all the moments we’ve shared, for the trust of the players and staff, and for the passion of the Ghanaian people. Ghana has become a special part of my life, and I really hope there are many more moments to come together.”
He played a key role in Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, where the Black Stars scored only two goals, with one coming from a set-piece.
