By Enitan Abdultawab Carlos Queiroz has left his position as head coach of Ghana for the second time in three months after a difficult return to the Black Stars ended with consecutive defeats. The Portuguese coach and the Ghana Football Association mutually agreed to terminate his contract following Ghana’s 4-2 home defeat to The Gambia on September 29, just days after the team suffered a 2-0 loss to Côte d’Ivoire.
Queiroz first stepped down as Ghana coach on July 5 following the country’s World Cup exit. He returned to the position nine weeks later in early September, but his second spell lasted only a few weeks. Confirming his departure in a statement issued by the Ghana Football Association, the 73-year-old said ending the relationship was considered the most appropriate decision under the circumstances.
“This was not an easy decision, but both parties agreed that, under the present circumstances, ending our professional relationship was the most appropriate course of action, with the interests of Ghana, the Black Stars and Ghanaian football above everything else,” Queiroz said. “It has been an honour to serve Ghana and the Black Stars.
I sincerely thank the Ghana Football Association and particularly its president for their trust and for the opportunity to lead such a proud football nation. “I came to Ghana determined to help build a stronger future for the Black Stars and support the development of the country’s talent.
“Despite our commitment and efforts, the necessary conditions were not fully established, and our recent performance added to the decision to bring this journey to an end.” Queiroz’s latest spell in charge ended after seven matches, with the team recording one win, two draws and two defeats during his time in the dugout. The defeat to The Gambia proved particularly damaging. Ghana, ranked 65th in