Black Stars' New Coach Already at Work, Says GFA President Okraku

Ghana's football authorities are in the final stages of appointing a successor to Carlos Queiroz as Black Stars head coach, with GFA President Kurt Okraku confirming that the incoming manager has already commenced work on the role. Speaking to 3Sports, Okraku disclosed that contractual formalities are all that remain before the appointment is formally announced to the public.

How far along is the process?

Okraku was explicit about the timeline, stating that the new coach is "99% in place" and that Ghana will have a permanent technical leader "before we regroup." The GFA chief revealed that the prospective coach is not simply waiting in the wings but has already begun preparing for the role. "The coach who would lead the Black Stars is already working and what I also know is that we are just at that last line where we are to sign papers to formalise the relationship," Okraku explained.

This suggests the GFA has moved beyond the selection phase and into implementation. Rather than the typical approach of announcing a coach and then beginning preparations, the federation appears to have arranged for the incoming manager to hit the ground running, studying the squad, reviewing footage, and planning tactical direction before the official unveiling.

The GFA has ensured there is "machinery in place" to oversee the transition, Okraku added, indicating a structured handover process from Queiroz's regime to the new administration.

Why it matters for Ghana

Continuity in the coaching position is critical for the Black Stars at this stage. Queiroz, who departed after Ghana's 2026 World Cup campaign, brought stability to a programme that had experienced significant turbulence. His exit left a vacuum at a crucial moment in the team's development cycle, with several young players emerging and the next Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign looming.

The delay in appointing a new coach can disrupt squad cohesion, tactical familiarity, and player development. By confirming that a replacement is already functioning in the role—even before the papers are signed—Okraku is signalling that the GFA recognises the cost of prolonged uncertainty. A coach who has already begun studying the squad's strengths, weaknesses, and personnel can hit the ground far more effectively once formally introduced.

For Ghana's supporters and stakeholders, the news provides reassurance that the federation is not in disarray despite Queiroz's departure. The revelation that the coach is already working suggests the GFA has conducted thorough due diligence and secured someone willing to accept the role on these terms—a positive indicator of confidence in the arrangement.

What comes next

The GFA is expected to make the formal announcement once outstanding contractual issues are resolved. No timeline has been given for this, but Okraku's emphasis on completing the appointment before the Black Stars' next camp suggests it will occur within weeks rather than months.

Once officially unveiled, the new coach will have an early opportunity to assess the squad's readiness and begin integrating any new players or tactical adjustments needed for upcoming continental and World Cup qualifying fixtures.