Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has publicly clarified his lack of involvement in the appointment of Otto Addo as Ghana’s head coach.
Addo, who returned to the position in March 2024, signed a three-year contract with the Ghana Football Association (GFA), which includes an option for an additional two years.
He succeeded Chris Hughton, who was dismissed following Ghana's disappointing group exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
During a session with the Parliamentary Select Committee, Ussif emphasized that the decision to hire Addo was made independently by the GFA. “I had no role in Otto Addo's selection as Black Stars coach,” he stated.
“When it comes to national team appointments, it is the role of the GFA. They have their technical directorate for that. The Ministry has no role,” he explained. Ussif noted that while it wouldn’t have been inappropriate for the GFA to consult him, the decision was made unilaterally.
He urged the GFA to grant Addo additional time to improve the team's prospects for success. “If I had my way, we would give our coaches more time. If you look at Senegal, their coach has had six years. That allows him time to understand the team and the players to get results,” Ussif said.
He expressed a firm belief that extending support to coaches in understanding the national philosophy and player capabilities would yield positive outcomes.
Addo faces mounting pressure following Ghana's winless streak in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, which includes a 1-0 defeat to Angola and a 1-1 draw against Niger.
The Black Stars currently sit third in Group F with just one point, trailing Angola, who lead the group with six points, and Sudan, who are in second place with three points.
