Former Hearts of Oak coach Kim Grant has voiced strong criticism against the current Black Stars coach, Otto Addo, following Ghana’s unsuccessful attempt to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Grant, who now manages Prague Raptors F.C., aired his concerns on Facebook, calling for Addo's immediate removal. According to Grant, Addo’s tactical choices have exposed a lack of expertise, particularly in failing to develop a cohesive playing style that suits the strengths of Ghanaian players. He noted that the coach’s decision-making has resulted in key players being misused, leading to underperformance on the field. Grant expressed frustration that the talent within the squad is being wasted due to poor management, describing the situation as forcing "square pegs into round holes." Additionally, he accused influential figures within the Ghana Football Association (GFA) of shielding Addo from consequences, a practice he claims has allowed the current technical team to remain despite a failed qualification campaign.
Grant’s discontent reflects a broader disappointment within Ghana, as this qualification failure is a historic setback—the first time in 20 years that the Black Stars have missed out on the AFCON tournament. The team’s poor performance in Group F saw them finish at the bottom, earning only three points without a single victory from six matches, comprising three draws and three defeats. Grant’s criticism extended to the GFA’s response, condemning the idea of retaining the current coaching staff for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. He stressed that past coaches were removed for lesser failures, suggesting that the association’s protection of Addo is unwarranted and risks further embarrassment. For Grant, this leniency signals a tolerance for mediocrity that could hinder Ghana’s future successes on the international stage.
The Ghana Football Association’s Executive Council is expected to make a decision soon regarding Otto Addo’s future with the national team. Many within the football community, like Grant, are calling for accountability and a change in leadership to revitalize Ghana’s prospects. The recent qualification failure has sparked debates on the direction of Ghanaian football, with supporters and analysts alike demanding a shift in strategy and a reassessment of the coaching staff. The pressure is mounting as the national team looks toward the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, hoping to recover from this setback and restore pride to Ghanaian football. Grant’s comments underscore a deep concern that unless there is a change, the team could face continued struggles, and the once-revered Black Stars could see their reputation further diminished on the continental and global stage.
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