GFA President Kurt Okraku maintains an optimistic outlook on Ghana's prospects of ending their trophy drought, despite the recent disappointing performances of the Black Stars in tournaments.
Okraku acknowledged the team's subpar showing at the recent AFCON in Cameroon and attributed it to a lack of quality in the squad and a mindset that needed improvement.
However, he expressed confidence in the current team, emphasizing the significant progress they have made. Okraku believes that with time and patience, this team can lead Ghana to success.
Okraku highlighted the importance of focusing on the team's progress and the underlying processes rather than solely fixating on the results on the pitch. He emphasized the need to evaluate the intangible assets of the squad, the timing of their preparation, and the development of a winning team.
The GFA President acknowledged that the AFCON in Cameroon was a setback but saw it as the starting point for the process of building a formidable team for Ghana. In response to the criticism received, the rebuilding process commenced, with new personnel being introduced across all aspects.
Despite the team's inability to advance beyond the group stage at the World Cup, Okraku pointed out that constructing a winning team takes time. He recognized the disappointment of Ghanaians and their yearning for Ghana to excel at the highest level. However, he saw this as motivation for the Executive Council to persist with the rebuilding strategy and identify the right players and personnel to shape a winning team.
"I think we are on the right track. Undeniably, the AFCON in Cameroon was a major disappointment. We lacked the kind of players, organization, and mindset necessary to conquer Africa. But that marked the beginning of the process of building a strong team for Ghana," he explained to SuperSport.
"We initiated the rebuilding process, bringing in new personnel in all areas. You can clearly see that the team that represented Ghana at the AFCON and the current team look significantly different."
"The team didn't progress beyond the group stage, and Ghanaians were dissatisfied, and I understand that because we believe that we should always strive for the top. However, that served as motivation to continue with the rebuilding strategy."
"We have an incredible group of players who are willing to give their all for Mother Ghana. The current technical team led by Chris Hughton is highly competent, and with the support offered by the Football Association, the government, and the enthusiasm of Ghanaians, I believe the team is heading in the right direction."
"I firmly believe that the significant trophies that sitting presidents have always yearned for, the significant trophies that Ghanaians have always longed for, will soon be displayed on our shelves," Okraku confidently declared.
Ghana's last major trophy victory came at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1982. Okraku's belief in the ongoing rebuilding process and the potential of the current team reflects his determination to restore success to Ghanaian football.
