The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has named Carlos Queiroz as the new head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars.
The experienced tactician, who has previously managed top sides such as Real Madrid and Manchester United, as well as national teams like the Portugal national football team and the Iran national football team, will lead Ghana into the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Carlos Queiroz replaces Otto Addo, who recently received a dismissal.
Here are eight important facts about the new Black Stars coach:
1. African-born background
Queiroz was born on March 1, 1953, in Nampula, Mozambique, during the era of Portuguese colonial rule. Although he holds Portuguese nationality, his African roots give him a unique connection to the continent, which could help him relate better to Ghanaian players and supporters.
2. Architect of Portugal’s Golden Generation
Before stars like Luís Figo and Rui Costa rose to global prominence, Queiroz played a key role in developing them. He led Portugal’s U-20 team to consecutive FIFA World Youth Championship titles in 1989 and 1991, laying the foundation for a generation that later reached major international finals.
3. Extensive World Cup experience
Queiroz has guided multiple national teams to the World Cup, including South Africa (2002), Portugal (2010), and Iran (2014, 2018, 2022).
His ability to adapt across different football cultures and still deliver results makes him one of the most experienced coaches at that level.
4. Transforming Iran into a competitive force
During his near eight-year spell with Iran from 2011 to 2019, he built a highly disciplined and competitive team. He secured back-to-back World Cup qualifications and pushed stronger teams to their limits, including a narrow contest against the Argentina national football team in 2014.
5. Trusted ally of Sir Alex Ferguson
Few coaches earned the confidence of Sir Alex Ferguson like Queiroz did. He served as assistant manager at Manchester United in two separate spells, contributing to multiple titles, including the 2008 UEFA Champions League. Ferguson often praised his tactical input as crucial to the club’s success.
6. Experience with African football pressure
In 2021, Queiroz led Egypt national football team to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, where they narrowly lost to Senegal national football team on penalties. This experience gives him a clear understanding of the intensity and expectations surrounding African football.
7. A global coaching journey
Queiroz has managed teams across multiple continents, including stints in South Africa, the United States, Japan, the UAE, Qatar, Colombia, Egypt, and Iran.
His exposure to diverse football environments highlights his adaptability and cultural awareness, qualities essential in international football.
8. Former Real Madrid manager
In 2003, Queiroz took charge of Real Madrid, one of the most high-profile clubs in world football. Although his tenure was short-lived, he won the Spanish Super Cup and managed a squad filled with global stars.
His return to Manchester United afterward, where he enjoyed further success, underlines the level of respect he commands in the game