I was ready for a fresh challenge – Otto Addo explains Ghana return
Ghana coach Otto Addo has expressed his readiness to embrace the next step in his coaching career, leading to his return to the Black Stars on a full-time basis.
Following a brief stint where he guided Ghana to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where the team faced a group stage exit against Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea, Addo has now assumed the role permanently.
His return follows Chris Hughton’s departure after an unsuccessful 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
Addo, a former Ghanaian international, has signed a long-term contract to build a new team capable of competing for top honors.
In an interview with FIFA, he shared his journey and the decision-making process behind his move.
“The first time I joined the Ghana team, I had a release from Borussia Dortmund, where I worked as a talent coach, for a six-month period with the understanding that I would return,” Addo explained.
“I played for Dortmund for six years and coached there for five years, so it was crucial to maintain that relationship and honor my commitment.”
He continued, “When Ghana approached me again for a full-time role, it was a different discussion. My contract with Dortmund was ending in 2025.
I felt ready to take the next step, so I discussed it with Dortmund. I was very pleased that [Sporting Director] Sebastian Kehl allowed me to leave and understood my readiness to develop as a head coach.”
So far, Addo’s second stint has been marked by success, with back-to-back wins against Mali and the Central African Republic in June, significantly boosting Ghana’s prospects for the 2026 World Cup.
The Black Stars are set to resume their campaign in September with the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, facing Angola and Niger, as Addo looks to lead the team to further achievements.
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