The leaders of the nationwide football demonstration conducted under the banner #SaveGhanaFootball have expressed strong criticism over the constitution of the new technical team for the Black Stars
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced Otto Addo as the new coach for the team on Friday, March 14, 2024, replacing the departed Chris Hughton, who oversaw Ghana’s disappointing Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
Addo, a talent coach from Borussia Dortmund, will be assisted by former Ghana internationals John Paintsil and Fatawu Dauda. However, the decision has sparked concern among the #SaveGhanaFootball group.
In a statement released in response to the establishment of the technical team, the group emphasized the importance of reviewing the team’s performance at the AFCON before making any significant decisions.
They stated, “Our petition demanded a halt in the coaching search until a comprehensive report of Ghana’s showing at the AFCON 2023 had been thoroughly reviewed.”
Furthermore, the group questioned the qualifications of Otto Addo for the role, highlighting discrepancies between his experience and the criteria outlined by the GFA. They argued that Addo lacks the required coaching experience, track record in team reconstruction, and a proven winning record, as stipulated by the GFA’s roadmap.
- Otto Addo appoints John Paintsil and Fatau Dauda as assistant Black Stars coaches
- Otto Addo names first Ghana squad since returning as head coach
Regarding John Paintsil’s appointment, the group raised serious concerns about his past involvement in presenting a fake coaching certificate. They asserted that Paintsil’s involvement in such misconduct raises questions about his moral character and suitability for the role.
Additionally, the #SaveGhanaFootball leaders demanded financial transparency regarding the appointment of the new technical team, hinting at the possibility of further actions similar to their initial demonstration last month.
Meanwhile, Otto Addo after barely 24 hours of his appointment released a 26-man squad for the team’s upcoming friendly matches against archrivals Nigeria and Uganda.
The 48-year-old tactician will go back to Dortmund after these matches and return to take up the job fully in May marking the beginning of his 34-month contract with an optional extension of 24 months.
Read the full statement below
