Seth Panwum, Chairman of the National Sports Authority (NSA) Board, is calling for an extended tenure for the next Black Stars coach, emphasizing the need for stability to achieve desired results.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the frequent changes in coaching staff, Panwum’s suggestion comes in the aftermath of Chris Hughton’s dismissal following Ghana’s disappointing exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Hughton, appointed in February 2023, had a brief 11-month stint marked by inconsistent performances.
The Black Stars’ AFCON campaign began with a 2-1 loss to Cape Verde, followed by 2-2 draws against Egypt and Mozambique, leading to their elimination at the group stage.
Panwum criticizes the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for a lack of full support towards Hughton and highlights the negative impact of dismissing coaches without addressing underlying issues.
“It can’t always be the dismissal of the head coach; that won’t fix the problem,” he said.
“Before the AFCON, certain FA officials were opposed to the coach because he was not their preferred candidate, so he did not receive the full support of the organization,” he highlighted accusing the GFA of negligence about support.
Proposing a revised approach, Panwum suggests the next coach should sign a long-term deal, focusing on fundamental aspects and urging the GFA to listen to public opinions, considering that the national squad is funded by taxpayers.
“I propose that the next coach sign a long-term deal, return to basics, and address the fundamentals. It is time for the FA to listen to Ghanaians because the squad is funded by taxpayers,” Panwum suggested.
