Carlos Queiroz has officially announced his departure as head coach of the Black Stars, ending his short but impactful spell in charge of Ghana’s senior national team following their exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The experienced Portuguese tactician confirmed his decision in an emotional farewell message posted on his official Facebook page, where he reflected on Ghana’s World Cup campaign and called for long-term reforms to strengthen the country’s football structures.
Queiroz leaves after guiding the Black Stars to the Round of 32 of the expanded FIFA World Cup, marking Ghana’s first appearance in the knockout stage since the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
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The Black Stars’ run ended with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia in Kansas City, where Jhon Arias scored the decisive goal to eliminate Ghana from the competition.
In his farewell message, the 73-year-old said he was proud of what the team achieved despite the disappointment of falling short of a deeper run.
“Football, like life, teaches us one timeless lesson: you either win, or you learn. I leave this journey with pride in what we achieved, but also with the healthy dissatisfaction of those who always wanted more,” he wrote.
Carlos Queiroz was appointed in April 2026 on a four-month contract, giving him just over two months to prepare Ghana for the World Cup.
During his tenure, he managed five matches, recording one victory, two draws and two defeats.
Despite missing influential players, including Mohammed Kudus, Mohammed Salisu, and Alexander Djiku, through injury, the Black Stars produced disciplined performances throughout the tournament.
Ghana opened their campaign with a victory over Panama before holding England to a goalless draw. A narrow 2-1 defeat to Croatia followed, but four points were enough to secure qualification to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
However, Ghana’s lack of attacking threat proved decisive in the knockout stage. The Black Stars failed to register a shot on target against Colombia and finished the tournament with just four shots on target overall—the fewest of any team at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Beyond reflecting on results, Carlos Queiroz used his farewell message to urge Ghana to prioritise reforms away from the pitch.
According to him, sustainable success for the Black Stars depends on creating the right structures to nurture talent and prepare the national team professionally.
“The future of the Black Stars will not be built only on the pitch. Black Stars success must start off the field, by creating the best possible environment to prepare, protect and develop Ghana’s extraordinary football talent.”
He thanked the Ghana Football Association, his technical staff, players and Ghanaian supporters for their commitment throughout the World Cup campaign.
“To the fans, we cannot claim complete sporting satisfaction, but we can proudly say that we honoured the colours of Ghana and restored respect and credibility to the Black Stars on football’s greatest stage. Thank you, Ghana. The journey starts now,” he added