Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz addressed the media on Monday, September 21, 2026, ahead of Ghana’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia.

From his insistence that winning remains the ultimate objective to concerns over recurring injuries, player selection and Ghana’s long-term rebuilding process, several issues dominated the Portuguese coach’s engagement with the media.

Here are 10 things that stood out from Queiroz’s press conference:

Winning remains the priority

Queiroz made it clear that winning remains at the centre of his football philosophy as he begins another chapter with the Black Stars.

The Portuguese coach stressed that results remain the ultimate measure in football, with his approach centred on building a team capable of competing and winning rather than focusing solely on style.

Major changes to technical team

The coach also addressed the significant changes made to his technical team since his return.

The restructuring has seen changes to his backroom staff, including the appointment of Godwin Attram as assistant coach following Desmond Ofei’s move to the Black Meteors.

Black Stars battling injury problems

Injuries emerged as one of the major concerns during the press conference, with several players unavailable for the upcoming international window.

Queiroz acknowledged the extent of the problem and indicated that Ghana cannot continue to treat the recurring injuries affecting its players as isolated incidents.

Ghana to investigate recurring injuries

The coach revealed that steps will be taken to investigate why Ghana continues to experience recurring injury problems among players.

The issue, according to Queiroz, requires a broader examination to identify possible causes and help prevent similar situations from repeatedly affecting the national team.

Match fitness remains key

Queiroz also reiterated that match fitness is an important requirement for selection.

The coach wants players competing regularly for their clubs, with current form and physical readiness playing a major role in determining who gets into the Black Stars squad.

Queiroz cautious with young players

The Portuguese coach also explained his approach towards Ghana’s emerging talents.

While acknowledging the importance of introducing young players, Queiroz stressed that they must not be rushed into the senior national team before they are adequately prepared for the demands of international football.

Replacements called up

The Black Stars have also had to make adjustments to the squad following withdrawals.

Queiroz confirmed the need to bring in replacements as Ghana deals with injuries and other player availability issues ahead of the qualifiers.

Brandon Thomas-Asante is among the players brought into the squad after Mohammed Kudus withdrew from the team.

Rebuilding for 2030 World Cup

Beyond the immediate AFCON qualifiers, Queiroz revealed that the rebuilding process is being designed with the 2030 World Cup in mind.

The coach wants Ghana to begin building a team capable of competing at the next World Cup rather than focusing only on short-term results.

Ending Ghana’s AFCON drought

Despite the long-term plans, Queiroz knows the immediate target is qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Ghana missed the 2025 tournament after a disappointing qualifying campaign. Queiroz is therefore targeting a return to the continental showpiece and believes the upcoming qualifiers represent the first major step in restoring the Black Stars.

Investment must go beyond players and coaches

The coach also made a broader call for investment in Ghanaian football.

According to Queiroz, developing the Black Stars cannot be achieved simply by changing players or coaches.

He believes Ghana needs investment in the wider football structure to create the conditions necessary for sustained success.

FKA/AM