Former Ghana international Frimpong Manso has called for strong support for Black Stars head coach Otto Addo as the team gears up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers next year.
Manso’s remarks follow Ghana's disappointing run in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, where the team’s chances of reaching the tournament in Morocco are slim after accumulating only two points from four games.
Reflecting on Ghana's struggles in the AFCON qualifiers, Manso expressed doubts about their qualification prospects but emphasized the need to rally behind Addo in preparation for the World Cup qualifiers beginning in March 2025.
"I know Otto Addo wants to make a positive impact for Ghana, but at this point, we should focus on supporting him as we approach the World Cup qualifiers. Our chances of making it to the AFCON are very slim," Manso, who also coaches Bibiani GoldStars, told Asempa FM in an interview.
"Missing out on the AFCON will disappoint many, but what Otto needs is our backing to make the right decisions and bring in the best players for the World Cup qualifiers,” he added.
The Black Stars face a critical AFCON qualifying match against Angola's Palancas Negras on November 15 in Luanda, followed by their final Group F game at home against Niger on November 18. Ghana is currently third in their group, trailing both Angola and Sudan.
In the World Cup qualifiers, however, Ghana is in a stronger position, sitting second in Group I with nine points. They will take on Chad and Madagascar in the next round, as they aim to secure a spot in the 2026 tournament.
