Former Ghana international Augustine Arhinful has voiced his full backing for the appointment of Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars, highlighting the Portuguese tactician’s extensive experience and leadership qualities as the key factors that will elevate the team’s performance in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Queiroz, 73, recently inked a four-month contract to take over the reins from Otto Addo, following a period of underwhelming performances by the national team. Despite securing qualification for the global showpiece, Addo’s tenure ended after the Black Stars failed to meet expectations in international competitions.
Carlos Queiroz sets sights firmly on World Cup glory with Ghana Black Stars
Arhinful, who made his mark with clubs like Borussia Dortmund, believes Queiroz’s wealth of experience will be a crucial asset in shaping the Black Stars’ preparations. The former forward is confident that the veteran coach will have an immediate impact on the team, particularly when it comes to restoring their morale and competitive spirit.
“He’s an experienced coach, a father figure, 73 years old, and he’s been in the business for a long time,” Arhinful remarked in an interview with Graphic Sports. “So, psychologically and in terms of motivating the players, he will always be capable of doing that.”
Queiroz, who is renowned for his impressive stints with top-tier clubs and national teams, has already embarked on a European tour to meet with key Black Stars players, laying the groundwork for the team’s World Cup preparations.
As Ghana embarks on its fifth World Cup journey, the squad will face a tough group stage, having been drawn in Group L alongside powerhouses England, Croatia, and Panama.
The Black Stars are scheduled to kick off their tournament campaign against Panama on June 17, followed by a high-stakes encounter with England on June 23, before rounding off the group stage with a match against Croatia on June 27.
2026 World Cup. Five reasons Carlos Queiroz will succeed with Ghana Black Stars
With a coach of Queiroz’s stature at the helm, Arhinful is optimistic that Ghana’s fortunes will change, especially after two disappointing group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022.
The hope is that Queiroz will instill a winning mentality, prepare the team physically and mentally, and ultimately guide Ghana to a better World Cup performance this time around.
