The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has decided to retain Otto Addo as the head coach of the Black Stars, despite the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The decision was confirmed by GFA Executive Council member and Black Stars Management Committee Chairman, Dr. Randy Abbey.
Addo, who managed six games in the AFCON qualifiers without a single victory, presided over Ghana’s first failure to qualify for the continental tournament in 20 years. Despite this setback, the GFA remains committed to keeping Addo at the helm.
Speaking on Original FM, Dr. Abbey explained the rationale behind the decision:
“We think the GFA has made its decision already. The GFA is keeping Otto Addo. Immediately, it’s about the World Cup qualifiers that start in March, and to ensure that the poor trend of results that led to non-qualification for AFCON is reversed. We want to put the Black Stars back on the winning path.”
However, changes are expected in Addo’s backroom staff, with assistant coaches Joseph Lauman, John Paintsil, and goalkeeper coach Fatau Dauda reportedly set to be dismissed as part of efforts to improve the team’s performance.
Addo, who assumed the role in early 2024 following Ghana’s underwhelming AFCON campaign in Ivory Coast, will continue his three-year contract, which includes an option to extend by an additional two years.
The Black Stars will now shift their focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. They are set to return to action in March with crucial matches against Chad and Madagascar, as the team seeks to rebuild and regain its competitive edge.
