Former Ghanaian international footballer Abdul Razak has publicly criticized the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for its handling of the vacant coaching position for the national team, the Black Stars.
Since the dismissal of Chris Hughton following Ghana's disappointing performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the coaching role has remained unfilled. The team's failure to progress beyond the group stage for the second consecutive tournament has exacerbated concerns over the team's direction.
Despite announcing a roadmap to appoint a new coach after Hughton's departure, the GFA has yet to provide any updates, even though a deadline was set.
Former Black Stars boss Otto Addo is reportedly a leading candidate for the position, with the Borussia Dortmund technical team member expressing interest in a return to coaching the national team.
Expressing his discontent in an interview with Akoma FM, Abdul Razak, also known as Zito, criticized the GFA's approach to the search for a new head coach.
“If the FA knew they would appoint Otto Addo, there would be no need to open applications for the Black Stars coaching job. They treat the Black Stars' coaching position as trash,” Razak stated.
He went on to assert that the coaching role for the Black Stars has lost its value under the current administration, suggesting that personal interests may be prioritized over the welfare of Ghanaian football.
Razak expressed skepticism regarding the potential appointment of Otto Addo, citing his previous stint with the team, which did not yield positive results.
“Otto Addo as Black Stars coach will be the most ineffective decision ever made by this FA. We should take the time to hire the best candidates available. Otto Addo led us to the World Cup, but nothing good came from it, so why him again?” he questioned.
Razak's remarks highlight growing concerns within the Ghanaian football community regarding transparency and effectiveness in the GFA's decision-making process regarding key coaching appointments.