‘Forget 2030 World Cup and 2027 AFCON’ – Nii Lantey Vanderpuye calls for eight-year Black Stars rebuild

Former Sports Minister Nii Lantey Vanderpuye has called on Ghana to prioritise long-term rebuilding of the Black Stars over immediate ambitions at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking in an interview with Sir John on Akoma 87.9 FM’s GhanAkoma, Vanderpuye urged football authorities to develop a comprehensive plan to establish a strong and competitive national team for the future.

“We should forget about the 2030 World Cup and the 2027 AFCON and focus on building a strong team for the next eight years,” he said.

He stressed the need for a clear development strategy, backed by strong structures, to ensure Ghana builds a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level.

Vanderpuye also criticised the composition of the current Black Stars squad, describing it as a mixture of players assembled without sufficient continuity.

“The current Black Stars team is a mixture of frɛfrɛ kɔbɔ. We used over 100 players during the World Cup qualifiers. Which country does that?” he questioned.

His comments highlight concerns about Ghana's player selection and the need for a consistent group of players capable of developing cohesion and understanding over time.

He believes a long-term rebuilding programme should focus on establishing a clear identity for the national team rather than repeatedly changing personnel without a sustainable plan.

Vanderpuye also questioned the logic of appointing an elderly coach while claiming to be building a new team.

“How do you appoint a 73-year-old coach and claim you’re building a new team?” he asked.

The former Sports Minister's comments reflect his concerns about whether the technical direction of the Black Stars aligns with the country's stated ambition to rebuild for the future.

He argued that Ghana needs a coherent plan, proper structures and a clear vision to guide the development of the national team over the next eight years.

Vanderpuye further criticised the direction of football administration in the country, arguing that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has placed excessive emphasis on the senior national team at the expense of broader football development.

“The current football is Ghana Black Stars Association and not Ghana Football Association,” he stated.

His remarks point to the need for a broader approach to football governance, with attention extending beyond the Black Stars to the structures required to develop the game at all levels.

Ghana's immediate challenge remains improving the Black Stars' competitiveness while establishing a sustainable pathway for future success.

However, Vanderpuye believes the country must be prepared to look beyond immediate tournament ambitions and invest in a long-term rebuilding strategy.

By Emmanuel Owusu