Ghana: Carlos Queiroz leaves an emotional farewell message for the people and the Black Stars

29.09.26 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Ghana

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:

Gambia

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Carlos Queiroz is no longer the head coach of the Black Stars of Ghana as of October 1, 2026. The 73-year-old coach and the Ghana Football Association have ended their collaboration by "mutual agreement," according to a statement from the GFA.

As he departed, the man who led Ghana to the most recent World Cup issued a statement in which he did not address the reasons for the separation. Carlos Queiroz thanked everyone involved in Ghanaian football.

The separation comes after the debacle suffered by the Black Stars, who were beaten 2-4 by Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on matchday two of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Carlos Queiroz's statement

Following discussions conducted in a spirit of mutual respect, the Ghana Football Association and I have mutually agreed to terminate the employment contract governing my duties as head coach of Ghana's national team, the Black Stars.

This decision was not easy to make, but both parties agreed that, under the current circumstances, ending our professional collaboration was the most appropriate solution, with the interests of Ghana, the Black Stars and Ghanaian football taking precedence over everything else. It was an honour to serve Ghana and the Black Stars.

I sincerely thank the Ghana Football Association, and in particular its president, for their trust and for giving me the opportunity to lead a nation so proud of its football. I came to Ghana with the firm intention of helping to build a stronger future for the Black Stars and supporting the development of the country's talent. Despite our commitment and efforts, the necessary conditions were not fully in place, and our recent performances played a part in the decision to end this journey. I leave with respect, gratitude and pride.

I thank my technical staff and everyone who supported us, particularly since the beginning of our work towards the 2026 World Cup. But above all, I pay tribute to the Black Stars players. Thank you to each of them for representing Ghana with courage, commitment and pride. You fought for your country and carried the hopes of millions of people. Have confidence in these players. Protect them. Support them.

The talent and potential are clearly there. With unity, support and a conducive environment, this generation can achieve great things for Ghana. To the Ghanaian people and all Black Stars supporters, thank you for your passion, support and warmth. I will always carry Ghana in my heart, with respect and affection.

Ghana comes first.

The Black Stars come first.

Ghanaian football comes first.

Thank you, Ghana

Nafongo TRAORE |

News Editorfr, ar, en

Nafongon Moussa TRAORE, Burkinabè de 25 ans, est passionné de football, est rédacteur pour Foot Africa et commentateur pour BurkiFoot.

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