Portuguese tactician Paulo Bento emerges as strong contender for Black Stars job

Former South Korea and Portugal head coach Paulo Bento has emerged as a leading candidate for the vacant Black Stars coaching position, as the Ghana Football Association intensifies its search for a new manager.

The Black Stars job became available following the dismissal of Otto Addo after a string of poor results in recent international matches.

With roughly 70 days remaining before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the GFA is under pressure to appoint a new coach to steer preparations.

According to reports, Bento has expressed interest in taking over the role, with GHANAsoccernet.com sourcesindicating that the Portuguese tactician is keen on a return to the international stage.

The Black Stars have been without a substantive head coach since Addo’s departure, prompting urgency within the Association to find a suitable replacement.

Bento is no stranger to the World Cup, having guided South Korea to the Round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

His leadership during the tournament earned widespread praise, particularly for his tactical discipline and ability to organize a competitive side.

The 54-year-old has previously been linked to the Ghana job, having been considered as a potential candidate back in 2022. Reports suggest that a significant number of coaches - estimated to be around 600 - have submitted applications for the role, but Bento is among the standout names currently under consideration.

Another high-profile coach, Hervé Renard, is also believed to be in the frame. However, uncertainty surrounding his current situation has reportedly shifted attention more towards Bento within Ghanaian football circles.

After leaving South Korea, Bento had discussions with the Poland national team but failed to reach an agreement, with Fernando Santos eventually taking the job.

He later took charge of the United Arab Emirates national team in 2023 but was dismissed in March 2025 following a dip in form and disappointing results.

Despite that setback, the Ghana opportunity presents an attractive proposition. It offers Bento a chance to quickly return to the global stage and lead a talented squad into another World Cup campaign.

Ultimately, the decision now rests with Bento - whether to embrace a short-term but high-stakes challenge with Ghana or wait for a more stable long-term project elsewhere.

Meanwhile, the GFA is expected to continue its evaluation process before making a final call on the next Black Stars head coach.