The Ghana Football Association (GFA) made a significant announcement tonight, stating that Chris Hughton has been removed from his position as head coach of the Black Stars, the senior national team. The decision to terminate the whole technical staff was likewise made by the GFA Executive Council.
This follows the Black Stars’ underwhelming showing at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where they lost both of their group stage matches.
Despite the fact that Hughton, 65, had led the team to AFCON qualification, their dismal performance drew criticism from all quarters and demands for improvement.
In its statement, the GFA promised to provide “a roadmap outlining the future trajectory of the Black Stars” in the upcoming days, but it did not provide any explanation for the decision. It is anticipated that this plan will include hiring a new head coach and possibly rearranging the technical staff.
Chris Hughton signed a 21-month deal in February 2023 to take over as head coach of the Black Stars. He led the squad to five wins and two draws in his first eight games, which was successful at first and got them qualified for the AFCON.
Lately, though, things haven’t gone as planned; the Black Stars struggled in friendlies and finally lost in the AFCON group stage.
Hughton’s retirement and the breakdown of the technical team, which includes his assistants George Boateng and Mas-Ud Dramani, as well as goalie trainer Richard Kingson, mark a huge revamp for the Black Stars.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers approach, the GFA must put together a new coaching staff capable of guiding the squad back to worldwide success.
