The Ghana Football Association has named Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement released on Monday, April 13, the GFA confirmed the decision was taken by its Executive Council alongside key stakeholders, with the veteran Portuguese coach set to begin work immediately as preparations intensify for the tournament, which kicks off on 11 June 2026.
“The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars,” the GFA stated.
Queiroz arrives with deep World Cup pedigree. He has previously taken teams to four editions of the competition, guiding South Africa to qualification in 2002, leading Portugal to the knockout rounds in 2010, and managing Iran at the 2014 and 2018 tournaments. Across those campaigns, he oversaw 13 matches, recording three wins, four draws and six defeats.
“The former Real Madrid, Manchester United, Portugal, and Iran coach will lead Ghana’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States,” the GFA statement added.
The GFA highlighted his global résumé, which includes international roles in Egypt, Oman, Japan and Qatar, saying his experience across continents will strengthen Ghana’s build-up to the tournament.
The 73-year-old replaced Otto Addo, who left the post on 31 March after a disappointing run that featured friendly defeats to Germany and Austria. Ghana also failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) despite boasting Premier League-based talent such as Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo.
Ghana open their World Cup campaign against Panama on 17 June 2026 in Toronto, before facing England and Croatia.