Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has expressed his deep disappointment over the Black Stars’ poor performances in recent years, calling for a complete overhaul of the team’s technical leadership.
The senior national team has endured a dramatic decline, failing to progress beyond the group stage in consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments in 2021 and 2023. Their struggles culminated in a historic setback under Otto Addo, as Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON—the first time in 20 years.
Ghana’s qualification campaign was disastrous, with the team managing only three points from six games, suffering three defeats and three draws to finish at the bottom of their group.
During a visit by the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, to Manhyia Palace on Friday, February 14, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II did not mince words about the team’s decline.
“The Black Stars is now a disgrace,” he said. “Get the team a good technical team to lead it. The team is in poor shape and constantly breaking the hearts of Ghanaians. They exited the last tournament earlier than expected.”
The Asantehene emphasized that beyond changes in the technical team, the selection process must be based on merit rather than external influences.
“The right players must be called up. I have told them at Kotoko that good players must be given the chance to play, not just those with certain affiliations.”
His remarks reflect the growing frustration among Ghanaians over the team’s lackluster performances and inconsistent squad selections.
Despite their AFCON disappointment, the Black Stars still have a chance to redeem themselves as they prepare to resume their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. Ghana will host Chad on March 17 before traveling to face Madagascar on March 24, in two crucial matches that could determine their hopes of making it to the next World Cup.
