NSA Board Chairman Calls Long-Term Contract for Next Black Stars Coach

The Chairman of the National Sports Authority (NSA) Board, Seth Panwum, is urging the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to consider offering a more extended contract to the next Black Stars coach. Panwum expresses dissatisfaction with the frequent turnover of coaches, emphasizing that a prolonged term would provide stability and enhance the team’s performance.

This recommendation comes in the aftermath of the dismissal of Chris Hughton, who served as the coach for only 11 months before Ghana’s exit from the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite being given a chance to redeem the team’s performance at the tournament, Hughton faced challenges, resulting in the Black Stars finishing third in their group and exiting the competition.

Panwum points out the detrimental impact of constant coaching changes and suggests that the Ghana Football Association adopt a more strategic approach. He highlights the need for the next coach to sign a long-term deal, allowing them to focus on addressing fundamental issues and returning to the basics of the game. Panwum emphasizes the importance of full support from the organization and urges the GFA to consider public opinion since the team is funded by taxpayers.

In reviewing the recent history of Black Stars coaches under the GFA, Panwum notes the short tenures of James Kwesi Appiah, Charles Akonnor, Milovan Rajevac, Otto Addo, and Chris Hughton. He underscores the importance of stability in coaching to achieve sustained success.

The timeline reveals that Appiah’s second stint saw disappointment in the 2019 AFCON, leading to his departure in January 2020. Charles Akonnor faced challenges, culminating in his dismissal after a 1-0 defeat to South Africa in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. Milovan Rajevac, despite previous success in 2010, could not replicate it, resulting in his dismissal post-AFCON 2021. Otto Addo secured World Cup qualification but stepped down after a mixed performance in the tournament. Chris Hughton’s brief tenure marked the latest departure, with a historic AFCON exit for Ghana.