2026 World Cup: 'Experienced' Carlos Queiroz will improve and motivate Black Stars - Augustine Arhinful

Former Ghana international Augustine Arhinful has thrown his support behind the appointment of experienced Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz, expressing confidence that he can inspire the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Queiroz, 73, has signed a four-month deal to replace Otto Addo and was officially unveiled last week at the Alisa Hotel in Accra. His appointment follows Ghana’s inconsistent performances, which led to Addo’s departure despite the team securing qualification for the tournament.

Arhinful believes Queiroz’s vast experience and leadership qualities make him well-suited to lift the team’s morale and competitiveness.

“He’s an experienced coach, a father figure, 73 years old, and he’s been in the business for a long time," the former Borussia Dortmund forward told Graphic Sports.

"So, psychologically and in terms of motivating the players, he will always be capable of doing that,” Ahinful added.

Meanwhile, Queiroz has already begun a European tour to engage with Black Stars players as part of his preparations for the tournament.

Ghana will make their fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup and have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama.

The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before taking on England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.

Queiroz has been tasked with improving Ghana’s fortunes on the global stage after back-to-back group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022.