Speaker of the House of Representatives Alban Bagbin has voiced doubts about the efficacy of coach firings in resolving the Black Stars team’s problems in the wake of their underwhelming performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Coach Chris Hughton was fired immediately after the Black Stars finished the tournament without a single victory, which included draws against Egypt and Mozambique and a loss to Cape Verde. The technical team was also dissolved.
Bagbin contends that these measures, though, do not deal with the fundamental problems influencing Ghanaian football.
Bagbin highlights the necessity of an all-encompassing plan to address the numerous obstacles facing Ghana’s football scene, considering the team’s early eliminations from the 2023 AFCON and the previous tournament in Cameroon.
“The Black Stars and their handlers must know that they represent more than just a football team; they are a symbol of our national pride, cohesion, and resilience,” Bagbin stated. In order to pinpoint areas that need improvement, he demands a comprehensive assessment of the administrative frameworks, youth development initiatives, coaching standards, and football infrastructure.
“Firing coaches is not a magic bullet; instead, we need to assess our football facilities, youth development initiatives, coaching standards, and organizational frameworks to pinpoint areas in need of development.
Bagbin urges Ghanaians to invest in sports and culture, emphasizing that the national teams should reflect the diversity of Ghana’s football talent. He also promotes a holistic and sustainable development approach.
He continues, “Parliament will appreciate an opportunity to work with other stakeholders towards this common goal.”
Hughton’s successor, the Ghana Football Association (GFA), is about to name a new coach. Bagbin’s remarks highlight the necessity of a more thorough and planned approach to revitalize the Black Stars and deal with structural problems in Ghana’s football development.
The GFA is almost certain to name a new coach to take Hughton’s place.
