World Cup 2026: Carlos Queiroz didn't arrive by chance, says Kurt Okraku

Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kurt Okraku has thrown his full support behind Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz, insisting that the Portuguese tactician's appointment was no accident.

Speaking about Queiroz, who was appointed in April 2026 on a short-term deal ahead of the World Cup, Okraku revealed that the coach went through a rigorous three-round interview process and emerged as the best candidate.

"I have not known Carlos for long. His name came up during the time we were looking for a new trainer, and he went through the process of interviews. I think we had three rounds of interviews with him. Among all the shortlisted candidates, I think he came out tops," Okraku said.

He praised Queiroz's character and professionalism. "So far he has been good. He is a man of his words. With over 40 years of experience at the highest level of football, both at club level and international level, he wouldn't have gotten here by chance. His skillset is there for everybody to see. He is very humble but extremely firm. He is extremely firm in his belief."

Okraku stressed that Queiroz's track commends immediate respect from players, having managed some of the game's biggest names.

"When he walks into that changing room, he has natural respect because he's managed different kinds of players with different levels of attitude. He's been part of the Galácticos story in Madrid. He's been part of the history that was made at Old Trafford. He has managed the Neville brothers, David Beckham, just to name a few. He has seen everything."

The GFA president called on Ghanaians to rally behind the coach. "It's important that we give him the support. It's important that we give him the respect. It's important that we believe that he's not arrived here by chance and to support the work that he's doing for Ghana. I only pray that the Almighty God will bless the work and the decisions that he and his team are going to take for Ghana."

Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia and open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 17. For Okraku, Queiroz is the right man for the moment.

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