“I Leave With Respect, Gratitude and Pride” – Carlos Queiroz Bids Farewell to Ghana

Accra, Ghana – October 2, 2026

Carlos Queiroz has ended his latest spell as head coach of Ghana’s senior national team after the Portuguese coach and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) mutually agreed to terminate his contract.

The decision follows Ghana’s difficult opening to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with the Black Stars suffering consecutive defeats to Côte d’Ivoire and Gambia. Ghana lost 2–0 away to Côte d’Ivoire before a 4–2 home defeat against Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium.

In a farewell statement, Queiroz thanked the GFA, his technical team, the players and Ghanaian supporters for their backing during his time in charge.

“I leave with respect, gratitude and pride.”

Queiroz said he had arrived with the intention of helping build a stronger future for the Black Stars and supporting the development of Ghanaian talent. He added that the circumstances surrounding the team, together with recent performances, contributed to the decision to bring the working relationship to an end.

A brief but eventful Ghana tenure

Queiroz’s 2026 tenure came in two separate spells. He initially took charge in April and led Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup before leaving the position after the tournament. He was subsequently brought back before the latest AFCON qualifying matches.

At the World Cup, Ghana recorded a 1–0 victory over Panama and drew 0–0 with England before losing 2–1 to Croatia. The Black Stars then exited the tournament following a 1–0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32.

The subsequent AFCON qualifying defeats, however, brought renewed pressure around the team.

Queiroz praises Black Stars players

Despite his departure, Queiroz used his farewell message to defend the Ghana squad and encourage supporters to continue backing the players.

He thanked the team for representing Ghana and said the players had shown commitment while carrying the expectations of supporters.

The former coach also argued that the squad possesses significant talent and potential, while stressing the importance of unity, support and an appropriate working environment.

GFA begins search for a new coach

Queiroz’s departure leaves the GFA with the task of finding another head coach as Ghana prepares for the remaining matches in its 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.

The GFA confirmed that the separation was reached by mutual agreement and said the decision was taken following discussions between both parties.

For Ghana, attention now turns to the next phase of the Black Stars’ campaign and the appointment of a new technical leader.

Queiroz ended his farewell message by placing Ghanaian football above his personal departure, thanking supporters for their warmth and expressing his continued respect for the country.