George Afriyie criticizes GFA’s 'trial and error' approach to Black Stars coaching appointments

Former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), George Afriyie, has strongly criticized the leadership of Kurt Okraku for what he describes as a "trial and error" approach to coaching appointments for the Black Stars.

Under Okraku’s administration, the national team has seen a staggering five different head coaches in just five years, with little success in major international tournaments.

The coaching saga began with CK Akonnor’s appointment in 2020 after Kwesi Appiah's departure.

However, Akonnor’s tenure was abruptly ended, and Milovan Rajevac was brought back for a second stint, only to be dismissed after a disappointing group-stage exit at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Otto Addo took over as interim coach and successfully led the Black Stars to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, but resigned after the team's early elimination.

Chris Hughton, initially appointed as technical advisor, was named head coach but also failed to guide the team past the group stage in the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast.

In March 2024, Otto Addo was reappointed on a long-term contract, but the Black Stars' struggles continued, culminating in their failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON.

Afriyie expressed his frustration with the constant coaching changes, which he believes have created confusion and instability within the team.

“Coach CK [Akonnor] was sacked, then Milovan Rajevac was brought in. He was also dismissed, and Otto Addo came in.

Otto himself said he wasn’t ready for a long-term role. After he left, Chris Hughton took over, only to be sacked as well, and Otto Addo was reappointed. Is this not trial and error?” he questioned.

Afriyie also raised concerns about the GFA’s choice of coaching staff, particularly the appointment of Otto Addo, who had limited head coaching experience prior to leading the Black Stars.

He pointed out the absence of seasoned assistants to support the inexperienced head coaches, which has exacerbated the team's challenges.

“Elsewhere, when you appoint an inexperienced coach, you pair them with very experienced deputies. But in this case, the coach is inexperienced, and so are his assistants,” Afriyie noted.

The Black Stars will now turn their attention to their final AFCON qualifier against Mali, which will take place at the Accra Sports Stadium.

This match is expected to be a crucial reflection point for the team's leadership and future direction.