The Portuguese coach Calrlos Queiroz says he arrived in Ghana with the determination to help build a stronger future for the Black Stars and contribute to the development of the country’s football talent.
However, he acknowledged that the circumstances surrounding the team did not fully support the ambitions he had set, while recent performances also contributed to the decision to bring his tenure to an end.
A resignation statement shared on his Instagram account on Thursday, October 1, said:
“I came to Ghana determined to help build a stronger future for the Black Stars and support the development of the country’s talent. Despite our commitment and efforts, the necessary conditions were not fully established; this, together with our recent performances, brought us to the decision to end this journey.”
Queiroz said he was leaving with “respect, gratitude and pride”, while thanking his technical staff and all those who supported the team, particularly during preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
He also reflected positively on the opportunity to lead the Black Stars on the international stage, saying the ambition of restoring the prestige of Ghanaian football remained a source of pride for him.
“To rise and spread the prestige and reputation of the Black Stars through our World Cup performances made me feel proud.”
The coach reserved special praise for the Black Stars players, thanking them for representing Ghana with courage, commitment and pride.
“You fought for your country and carried the hopes of millions.”
Queiroz also urged Ghanaians to continue supporting the players, stressing that the current generation possesses the ability to achieve significant success if given the necessary backing and environment.
“Believe in these players. Protect them. Support them. The talent and potential are there. With unity, support and the right environment, this generation can achieve great things for Ghana.”
Addressing Ghanaian supporters directly, Queiroz thanked them for their passion, warmth and support during his time with the national team.
“To the Ghanaian people and all Black Stars supporters, thank you for your passion, support and warmth. I will always carry Ghana with me, with respect and affection.”
He concluded his farewell message by placing Ghanaian football above personal considerations, stressing that the national team and the country must remain the priority.
“Ghana comes first. The Black Stars come first. Ghanaian football comes first.”
Queiroz ended with a simple message of appreciation to the country: “Thank you, Ghana. To the Future.”
Background
Carlos Queiroz was appointed head coach of the Black Stars by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) on April 13, 2026, replacing Otto Addo.
His appointment came just 72 days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, giving him limited preparation time before the tournament.
The Portuguese coach was selected largely on the strength of his extensive international and World Cup experience. Before taking charge of Ghana, he had guided South Africa to the 2002 World Cup, taken Portugal to the last 16 at the 2010 tournament, and coached Iran at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups. He had also managed Egypt, Oman, Japan and Qatar.
Queiroz had very little time to work with the Black Stars before the World Cup. Reuters reported that he managed only one match — a 1-1 draw with Wales — before Ghana began its World Cup campaign.
2026 World Cup performance
Despite the limited preparation, Queiroz guided Ghana through the group stage. The Black Stars opened their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Panama, before holding England to a 0-0 draw. Ghana then lost 2-1 to Croatia in their final Group L match but still advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams.
In the Round of 32, Ghana faced Colombia and suffered a 1-0 defeat, bringing their World Cup campaign to an end. The match was Queiroz’s final game in charge at the tournament.
Following the World Cup exit, Queiroz initially indicated that he would leave the position. The GFA subsequently announced on September 2, 2026, that he had been reappointed for a new coaching mandate.
His second spell, however, was short-lived. In his subsequent statement announcing the termination of his service agreement, Queiroz cited the fact that “the necessary conditions were not fully established”, together with the team’s recent performances, as factors behind the decision.
