Ghana FA Eye Big Changes in Black Stars Coaching Staff Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifiers
- John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann are facing the sack in a potential Black Stars shake-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers
- The Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a winless run in the qualifiers
- This marked the first time in two decades that the four-time African champions failed to qualify for the continent's premier tournament
Ghana's Black Stars assistant coaches, John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann are reportedly on the verge of being dismissed by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
This potential shake-up follows widespread criticism of the technical team, led by head coach Otto Addo, after Ghana's failure to qualify for the upcoming AFCON in Morocco.
Source: Twitter
According to journalist Muftawu Nabila, the GFA is in discussions with a Belgian and a Serbian coach to replace Paintsil and Laumann, though their identities have not yet been disclosed.
The proposed changes are seen as part of efforts to revamp the coaching staff and boost the team’s performance ahead of the critical 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar in March.
The Black Stars' failure to secure an AFCON spot has triggered significant backlash from fans, many of whom have also called for Otto Addo's removal.
While Addo's future with the team remains uncertain, the potential dismissal of Paintsil and Laumann would mark a notable restructuring of the coaching setup.
With the World Cup Qualifiers looming, these developments signal a critical juncture for the Black Stars.
According to BBC data, the team managed just three points in six matches, drawing three games and losing the rest.
This marked the first time in two decades that the four-time African champions failed to qualify for the continent's premier tournament.
A glimmer of hope despite AFCON shambles
While the failure to qualify for AFCON 2025 remains a significant blow, the Black Stars have shown promise in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Ghana sits second in their group, tied on points with Comoros, after recording two wins under Addo’s guidance.
The road ahead is clear: March presents an opportunity for redemption as the team faces Chad and Madagascar in critical qualifiers.
Victories in these fixtures will enhance Ghana’s chances of securing a spot at the Mundial, a stage they graced during the 2022 edition in Qatar.
Top member of the Black Stars to be sacked; details emerge
YEN.com.gh also disclosed that Ameenu Shardow could be relieved of his duties as Black Stars Team manager as early as this month.
Should he survive January, Nabila adds that he might face the axe by February or March.
For context, by the time the Black Stars take to the field for their 2026 World Cup qualifying double-header in March, Shardow may no longer occupy his current position.
Sarkodie spotted with Ghana coaches
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that rapper Sarkodie was spotted with Black Stars coaches Fatau Dauda and John Paintsil in Accra.
The former Ghana players were at the launch of Melcom's new branch in Accra, where they got engaged by the multi-award-winning musician.
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Source: YEN.com.gh
