The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially appointed veteran Portuguese tactician Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars, following the dismissal of Otto Addo on March 31, 2026.
Addo, who guided Ghana to qualify for a second consecutive FIFA World Cup, was relieved of his duties after disappointing friendly defeats—a 5-1 loss to Austria and a 2-1 defeat to Germany.
Queiroz, 73, has been tasked with leading Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. The GFA highlighted his vast experience, including World Cup appearances with South Africa (2002), Portugal (2010), and Iran (2014, 2018, 2022).
Ghana’s Predicted World Cup Squad
With less than two months to the tournament, attention has quickly shifted to the players likely to make Queiroz’s final squad. Given the limited preparation time, he is expected to rely heavily on the core group from the previous regime.
Goalkeepers
- Benjamin Asare remains Ghana’s first-choice goalkeeper after establishing himself under Addo.
- Lawrence Ati-Zigi is expected to provide experienced backup, having featured at the 2022 World Cup.
- Joseph Anang could edge the race for the third spot due to recent involvement.
Defenders
- Alexander Djiku is set to anchor the defence with his consistency and experience.
- Jonas Adjetey remains in contention despite mixed performances in recent friendlies.
- Jerome Opoku and Derrick Luckassen provide depth with solid club form.
- Gideon Mensah continues as first-choice left-back, while Derrick Köhn offers an alternative.
- Caleb Yirenkyi’s versatility makes him a useful squad option.
- Marvin Senaya and Joseph Aidoo are also in the mix, with Aidoo needing strong club performances to secure his place.
- Kelvin Osei Asibey could earn a spot after an impressive domestic campaign.
Midfielders
- Thomas Partey is expected to lead the midfield despite inconsistent club form.
- Kwasi Sibo has emerged as a key holding midfielder.
- Elisha Owusu continues to receive call-ups, though scrutiny remains over his impact.
- Ibrahim Sulemana could benefit from potential injuries within the squad.
Forwards
- Jordan Ayew remains a key attacking figure after his strong showing in the qualifiers.
- Antoine Semenyo is a near-certain inclusion following his prolific club form.
- Abdul Fatawu Issahaku offers pace and creativity on the wings.
- Inaki Williams and Kamaldeen Sulemana bring experience and attacking depth.
- Christopher Bonsu Baah is pushing for a place with consistent performances.
- Prince Adu and Brandon Thomas-Asante provide additional attacking options.
- Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer will be aiming to secure a spot for his second major tournament.
