Carlos Queiroz takes on monumental challenge as coach of Ghana.

Carlos Queiroz takes over as head coach of the Black Stars: “It’s the greatest challenge of my life” and promises to revolutionize Ghanaian football

African football has just received explosive news: Carlos Queiroz, one of the most experienced and respected Portuguese coaches on the international scene, has been officially presented as the new head coach of Ghana. At 73 years old, the coach arrives with an impressive resume and a fierce ambition to take the Black Stars to new heights, pushing the limits of African football.

Queiroz, who recently stepped down from his role with the Oman national team, now takes on his ninth national team, boasting extensive experience in World Cup tournaments. With four appearances in the World Cup—Portugal in 2010, Iran in 2014, 2018, and 2022—this will be his fifth World Cup, equaling the legendary Bora Milutinovic. Only Brazilian Carlos Alberto Parreira has participated in more editions, with six. This fact underscores the magnitude of the challenge he now faces.

“It’s the greatest challenge of my life, for various reasons,” the coach stated at his official presentation. “Coaching Ghana will be an honor and the responsibility is enormous. This is the greatest challenge because it is the next one. The focus is on winning the next game and the ones that follow. I know that in Ghana, there is no expectation other than to win, so this is the greatest challenge,” he added, fully aware of the demands the position entails.

Carlos Queiroz does not hide the pressure that exists on this national team, which faces the Black Stars, one of the great powers of African football. Ghana’s best result in a World Cup was in 2010, when they reached the quarter-finals. Since then, the team has been unable to replicate that achievement. When asked about the possibility of not being able to match or surpass that milestone, the Portuguese coach was categorical: “A great man taught me many things, and one of them I always keep in mind in football: there is no failure. What exists is an opportunity to be better. Nelson Mandela told me one day: ‘Carlos, we never lose. We either win or learn.’ So, I am not afraid of anything. If we work and believe, we will be ready.”

Queiroz’s emotional connection to the African continent is deep, having also worked with the South African national team, where he learned valuable lessons that he now wants to apply in Ghana. “Looking at the talent, I am confident and believe we will have a great team to take to the pitch. My job is to ensure that those who deserve it are in the national team. The weight of the jersey is 20 grams in the locker room and 20 kilos once you step onto the field,” he emphasized, highlighting the responsibility and pride that the Black Stars jersey represents.

In addition to his sporting ambition, Queiroz has already expressed his desire to build a long-term project in Ghana. “I wish, dream, hope that after our performance the president of the Federation will be happy. If they offer me a contract renewal, that’s fine. I wouldn’t mind staying in Ghana for the rest of my life,” he revealed, making it clear that he is ready for a lasting commitment.

The arrival of Carlos Queiroz in Ghana promises to shake up African football and puts the Black Stars on an ambitious path to glory. With the experience and determination of the Portuguese coach, the expectation is that the Ghanaian national team will shine again on the world stage, living up to its history and the dreams of millions of fans. The biggest challenge of his life begins now, and the world will be watching.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.