Former Asante Kotoko Board Chairman Herbert Mensah has voiced significant concerns regarding the current state of the Black Stars of Ghana, particularly highlighting potential administrative inefficiencies as the team faces the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. With newly-appointed coach Carlos Queiroz tasked with preparing the squad for their opener against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, Canada, Mensah suggests that historical issues could pose a greater challenge than ever before.
Context: A New Era Under Queiroz
The Black Stars are aiming to advance beyond the group stage of the FIFA World Cup for the first time since their memorable run in 2010. Coach Carlos Queiroz, a seasoned tactician with experience managing multiple national teams, has been appointed to lead this charge. He faces a tight deadline, with his final squad for the expanded 48-team tournament due by June 1.
Queiroz’s track record, while accomplished in various coaching roles, has seen mixed results at the World Cup level. Despite this, Mensah acknowledges the coach’s capabilities, describing him as “a very accomplished coach” whose tactical acumen could be valuable. The team has been drawn into a challenging group alongside England, Croatia, and Panama, making their qualification path demanding.
Mensah’s Candid Assessment
Speaking to Luv FM, Herbert Mensah elaborated on his reservations. He pointed to a recurring theme in the Black Stars’ history: persistent administrative problems. Mensah stated that in the past, the sheer determination and talent of the players have often managed to overcome these systemic issues, leading to moments of brilliance on the pitch.
However, he expressed a strong sentiment that the current situation presents a more formidable obstacle. “I think this time it will be a little bit difficult for them,” Mensah remarked, suggesting that the confluence of group draw and internal management could prove especially taxing.
Mensah questioned the core aspects of the team’s readiness. “But are the players good enough? Have they been well prepared? Are they stable? Are they demoralized by what I going on?” he posited. These questions underscore a deeper concern about the team’s psychological and operational stability.
Internal Dynamics and Leadership
The former Kotoko chairman also delved into the internal workings of the squad, emphasizing the importance of leadership and the overall team environment. “What is the leadership team and the team like?” he asked, highlighting that the cohesion and effectiveness of the leadership group are paramount.
Mensah further stressed the need for introspection within the management and playing units. “How does it really work within the caucus group of the black stars, and whether the management team themselves are okay, and there’s a lot of self-examination,” he concluded. This suggests a belief that internal harmony and a clear, functional management structure are as critical as on-field strategy.
Implications and Future Outlook
Mensah’s comments serve as a stark warning to the Ghana Football Association and the Black Stars management. While the appointment of a coach like Queiroz brings a level of expertise, it cannot solely compensate for foundational issues in administration and team stability. The success of the Black Stars in the upcoming qualifiers may hinge not just on Queiroz’s tactical genius, but on addressing the deeply ingrained administrative challenges that Mensah has highlighted.
As the June 17 opener approaches, the focus will be on how effectively Queiroz can navigate these potential pitfalls. The team’s performance will be closely watched, not only for their results on the field but for signs of improved internal organization and player morale. The coming weeks will be critical for Queiroz and the GFA to demonstrate that they are prepared to tackle these administrative hurdles head-on, ensuring the Black Stars have the best possible chance to succeed on the global stage.
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