I engaged a top coach before Carlos Queiroz was appointed - Sports Minister Kofi Adams revales

Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has disclosed that Ghana explored the possibility of appointing a top-class coach before eventually settling on Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the Black Stars.

The national team’s managerial vacancy arose after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) parted ways with Otto Addo in March, following consecutive friendly defeats to Austria and Germany in the build-up to World Cup preparations.

After several weeks of deliberations, the GFA named experienced Portuguese tactician Carlos Queiroz on a short-term four-month deal ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Adams revealed that he personally engaged a highly regarded coach alongside a senior football figure in a bid to secure a long-term option for the team.

According to him, the coach expressed interest but indicated he would only be available after the World Cup, forcing a change in direction.

"Before the appointment of Carlos Queiroz, I engaged a top coach together with a senior colleague from the football fraternity, but he told will only be available after the 2026 World Cup, and so we had to move on and get someone for the short term for the tournament," the Buem said.

Meanwhile, the Minister confirmed that Queiroz has been given the mandate to guide Ghana to the semi-finals of the tournament.

Ghana, who will be making their fifth appearance at the global showpiece, have been drawn in a tough Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama.

The Black Stars begin their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.

After early exits in 2014 and 2022, expectations are mounting for a stronger performance, with Queiroz tasked with steering the four-time African champions beyond the group stage.