With under two months to go until the FIFA World Cup kicks off in Mexico City, the Ghana Football Association has announced the appointment of former Real Madrid boss and longtime Manchester United assistant under Sir Alex Ferguson, Carlos Queiroz, as its new head coach.
Having only recently let go of former head coach Otto Addo, who was in the role for just over two years in what was his second stint in charge, the team currently ranked 74th in the world by FIFA, will now be led at the upcoming North American World Cup by 73-year-old Queiroz.
In a statement released on Monday, the former Portugal and Iran boss said, “It is with a deep sense of gratitude to GFA, responsibility and humility that I embrace this new chapter with the National Football Team of Ghana.
“Football has given me a lifetime of challenges, lessons, and unforgettable journeys, all over the world. Today, I accept this mission with the same passion and commitment that have guided me throughout my career.
“Ghana is a nation of talent, pride, and footballing soul. I arrive with respect for its history and belief in its future. Together, with unity, discipline, and ambition, we will work to honour the expectations of a great football nation.
“This is not just another job — it is a mission. And I am ready to give everything of my experience and knowledge once again, in service of the game and the happiness of People.”
Queiroz is no stranger to international management, having previously led not only his home nation of Portugal as well as Iran, but also the UAE, South Africa , Colombia , Egypt , Qatar , and most recently, Oman.
In fact, he only left his role as Oman’s head coach after just shy of a year in the position last month. This was supposedly down to instability in the region, according to local outlets, via Reuters , although in a statement on Instagram, Queiroz did not elaborate on why he left the role.
“Gratitude, pride, and honour. Leading the National Football Team of Oman has been far more than a professional chapter — it has been a journey of trust, friendship, and shared belief,” he said.
“My heartfelt thanks to the players, staff, and everyone who made this path so meaningful through their professionalism, dedication, and loyalty.
“I leave with deep respect and affection for Oman, fully confident that its football future will continue to grow with strength and pride.
“Some chapters end, but the friendship, respect, the memories, and the bond with Oman will remain forever.”
Queiroz’s first game in charge will see Ghana take on Mexico in a World Cup warm-up on May 22 before facing Wales on June 2. While the venue for the first game remains unclear, the latter will be held at the Cardiff City Stadium.
While the World Cup kicks off on June 11 with Mexico hosting South Africa, Ghana’s Group L campaign will begin against Panama on June 17 at BMO Field in Toronto, before they travel to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, to take on England on the 23rd.
Their final group game is against Croatia on June 27 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
