GFA Search for New Coach as Kwesi Appiah Linked With Return
- The GFA has begun the search for a new coach after the exit of Otto Addo, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching
- Kwesi Appiah has emerged as a leading candidate despite currently managing Sudan and being under contract.
- The FA is also considering an internal appointment as it evaluates options to steady the Black Stars ahead of major upcoming matches
The Ghana Football Association has begun the process of appointing a new Black Stars head coach following the dismissal of Otto Addo, with attention turning to potential candidates ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Among the early names linked to the role is Kwesi Appiah, who is currently in charge of Sudan.
Source: Getty Images
His strong performances with the North African side have made a possible return to Ghana more complex, given his existing contract.
However, the opportunity to lead the Black Stars on football’s biggest stage could be a deciding factor should the FA formally pursue him, Ghanasoccernet reported.
Appiah is no stranger to the role, having previously managed the national team across two separate spells.
During his first tenure, he guided Ghana to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where the team exited at the group stage but earned praise for spirited displays, including a draw against eventual champions Germany.
To date, he remains the only coach to avoid defeat against Germany at a World Cup.
His second stint, however, proved more challenging. Appiah struggled for consistency and was eventually relieved of his duties in 2019 after two years in charge.
Alongside external options, the FA is also weighing an internal solution, with the current technical team under consideration following recent restructuring.
GFA to consider Saintfiet, Offei?
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Tom Saintfiet is on the radar of the Ghana Football Association.
The Mali coach has previously expressed interest in leading the Black Stars and would reportedly welcome the opportunity to take charge.
Source: Getty Images
Another name being considered is Desmond Offei, who could step in as interim coach, supported by assistants Alain Ravera, John Paintsil, and Kim Lars Bjorkegren.
The wider technical setup also includes scout Jose Daniel Martínez Alfonso and physiotherapist Carlos Lozano Romero, giving the FA an option to maintain continuity while a permanent appointment is finalised.
With friendly matches against Mexico and Wales scheduled for May, the FA faces a tight timeline to settle on a new direction as Ghana prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face Panama, Croatia, and England in the group stage.
Five possible replacements for coach Otto Addo
Earlier, YEN.com.gh has looked at five possible candidates who could step in should the GFA decide to crack the whip on Otto Addo's tenure.
Doubts about Otto Addo’s tactical direction grew louder after Ghana’s heavy loss to Austria on Friday, March 27, a performance that left the team outplayed in every department.
The Black Stars were second best from start to finish, raising fresh concerns about whether the current technical setup can compete with elite opposition at the 2026 World Cup.
Source: YEN.com.gh
