Black Stars assistant coach John Paintsil has revealed that working with head coach Otto Addo has had a significant impact on his career and has contributed greatly to his development.

According to him, the former Borussia Dortmund coach possesses great tactical knowledge and always ensures that his colleagues understand his philosophy.

He also noted that Otto Addo is a disciplined person who instills discipline in the team, emphasising adherence to instructions and sacrifices to ensure they give their best.

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Speaking in an interview with 3Sports, Paintsil disclosed that Otto sometimes refrains from eating before Black Stars matches due to the pressure.

“Otto is a leader. He's a great coach. He's a coach who understands me. His philosophy, and then he's making sure that we all follow up. And he's a disciplined type. Trust me, before a game, he doesn’t even eat. When we are sitting at the table, he doesn’t eat. He waits until after the game. He feels the pressure and all. So, I believe you know what he wants,” he said.

The former defender called on the general public to rally behind the team as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, expressing optimism about their performance.

“What I want to tell Ghanaians is to give him maximum support. Believe in him, because the coach who has qualified the nation can also do better. And it's not the first time he has qualified Ghana for the World Cup, this is the second time. He’s a coach who has also played for Ghana.

“He played at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, where he performed well. So with his experience, myself, Stephen Appiah, and others who have tasted it before, we can guide the team. Ghanaians need to believe in the head coach, give maximum support, and pray for the team so that we can make the country proud,” he noted.

Watch the video below:

"Otto Addo is a leader, a great coach, and a disciplined guy. Before a game, we don't even eat."

John Paintsil opens up on working with Otto Addo.#3Sports #MundialUnlimited pic.twitter.com/owbwgXs4GR

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) March 12, 2026