Carlos Queiroz described leading Ghana as the biggest challenge of his career during his unveiling as the Black Stars' new coach. Appointed 10 days ago, he will guide the team into the 2026 World Cup in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama. Queiroz emphasized the high expectations and the need for unity to succeed.
Queiroz, entering his 11th international management role, spoke at his introductory press conference about the demands of the job. “After eight national teams, this is the biggest challenge of my career,” he said. “Because when you work for Ghana, they expect nothing different than win, win, win.” Ghana has struggled recently, missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and failing to advance past the group stage since reaching the quarter-finals in 2010. The expanded 2026 tournament offers hope, with eight of 12 third-placed teams progressing from the group stage. Queiroz remains optimistic despite his past World Cup record, which includes a second-round exit with Portugal and group-stage eliminations with Iran in three tournaments. “If we play together, with the right mentality, we can beat any opponent in the world,” he stated. “There is only one medicine in football, to win. My job is to bring the right players to build the right team. A group of talented players is not always a great team.” He stressed team ethos over individuals. “The team is the most important player. Nobody owns the national team shirt, it must be earned,” Queiroz added. Looking beyond the summer tournament in North America, he vowed to develop future talent. “This is a country of footballers. My duty is to manage the present but also build the future, a generation that can make Ghana not just a country of footballers, but a country of champions.”
