Former Black Stars head coach CK Akonnor has shed light on the challenges he faced regarding player selection during his tenure, describing the process as “uncomfortable” and disorganized.
Akonnor, who led the team for 21 months between 2020 and 2021, was dismissed following a poor start to Ghana’s 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. His comments have reignited discussions about the influence of Ghana Football Association (GFA) officials in player selection, a contentious issue that has long fueled debate among fans and stakeholders.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Akonnor disclosed the challenges of justifying his selections to the GFA.
“As a coach, you draw the list of players you want to use based on your plans and strategies,” he explained. “Obviously, other members of the FA will also bring their views on board, but it was sometimes uncomfortable.
“I understand that they have a responsibility to oversee the team and ensure things are done well. Football isn’t done by one person alone. However, in my case, it wasn’t a collaborative effort—it was a mess. When I went in to justify my selections, it was always very uncomfortable.”
Akonnor’s revelation adds to the growing concerns about the operational structure of the Black Stars, who have struggled in recent years. The team has not reached the knockout stage of a major tournament since 2019 and recently failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), marking another low point in their history.
