Henry Asante Twum explains why GFA opened applications for Black Stars job rather than a headhunt

Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director Henry Asante Twum says the decision to open applications for the vacant Black Stars head coach position was influenced by the need to restore public confidence and respect the recruitment approach agreed with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation.

Asante Twum explained that although headhunting and recommendations were options, the authorities had to consider the wider public mood and the need for a different approach to selecting the next coach.

“Every point raised is very valid. However, sometimes you also have to consider the research method you are using to find a solution, especially when you want to restore public confidence,” he noted on TV3's Sports Station show.

“You are dealing with people who, in a way, are tired of a certain style or way of doing things and want you to change. All these are part of the process.”

He added that the GFA could not make the decision alone because the Ministry was also involved in the process.

“Since the decision was not solely that of the FA and had to involve the Ministry, we had to agree to move in certain directions. We needed to respect that particular approach,” Asante Twum said.

The GFA and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation established a five-member committee to oversee the search for a substantive Black Stars coach following Carlos Queiroz’s departure.

The recruitment process opened the position to applicants rather than relying exclusively on direct approaches to preferred candidates.

Meanwhile, Kim Lars Björkegren, Ibrahim Tanko and Godwin Attram have been given the mandate to lead the Black Stars on an interim basis for the Africa Cup of Nations double-header against Somalia in November.

Ghana are seeking a substantive new head coach after a disappointing start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, which included defeats to Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia.

The appointment will be a significant decision for the GFA as it seeks to rebuild confidence in the Black Stars and identify a coach capable of improving the team’s results.