Fred Pappoe urges Ghanaians to rally behind new Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz

Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice President Fred Pappoe has called on Ghanaians to throw their full support behind newly appointed Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz as the team intensifies preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Portuguese tactician has been handed a short-term contract to lead Ghana at the tournament, replacing Otto Addo after a difficult run of results that included defeats to Austria and Germany in March, as well as Ghana's failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking on Adom FM, Pappoe stressed the importance of unity and collective backing given the limited time before the World Cup.

“We have limited time for the World Cup, and if you look into the list available and you check our pocket, I believe we have to rally behind whoever has been appointed,” he said.

Pappoe added that Queiroz’s extensive experience—including four World Cup appearances—should be seen as a major advantage rather than a point of criticism.

“We were all clamouring for a respected coach, and someone who can transform the team has been chosen, so we must support him,” Pappoe stated.

Queiroz is expected to meet the Black Stars squad next month during a friendly against Mexico, followed by another preparatory match against Wales on June 2.

Ghana, heading to its fifth World Cup appearance, has been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England, and Croatia. With past group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022 still fresh in memory, Queiroz faces the task of guiding the Black Stars to a stronger showing on the global stage.