Former Ghanaian Sports Minister, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has weighed in on the ongoing debate regarding the next Black Stars coach.

In a statement that has sparked conversation within the football community, Vanderpuye firmly believes that the time has come for an African coach to lead Ghana’s national football team.

His comments come amid a growing wave of speculation following Otto Addo’s departure, with reports revealing that more than 600 candidates have expressed interest in the vacant position.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is reportedly under pressure to find the right replacement ahead of the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Vanderpuye has made it clear that nationality should not be the sole determining factor.

According to him, it is the coach’s qualifications, their understanding of the Black Stars’ current squad, and their ability to implement an effective strategy that truly matters.

“I agree with Rev Osei Kofi to some extent,” Vanderpuye said, acknowledging the value of local coaches, “but inasmuch as I say we don’t need European coaches, I think we need an African coach.”

The former minister referenced Ghana’s past successes under African coaches, pointing to notable names like Ibrahim Tanko, CK Akonnor, Godwin Attram, and Laryea Kingston, all of whom have shown potential but still need further development before taking on the senior national team role.

Vanderpuye noted that while these emerging coaches have shown promise, they must first build their resumes at the club level to prove their capacity to lead the Black Stars.

“They should go and start at the club level to build their resume and capacity,” he emphasized.