Ex-GFA official Thompson explains why Kwesi Appiah isn't ideal for Black Stars return

Former Black Stars Management Committee member Ernest Thompson has explained why Kwesi Appiah should not be considered for a third stint as Ghana head coach, citing concerns over the former boss's authority and ability to command the national team setup.

Speaking on Joy FM, Thompson argued that with less than three months to the 2026 World Cup, Ghana cannot afford to appoint a coach who may struggle to maintain control over the squad.

"I don't think Kwesi Appiah has the firmness needed to control this team," Thompson said.

"At this stage, we are dealing with high stakes—the World Cup is not a playground like the Africa Cup of Nations."

Thompson, who previously served as a management committee member for the Black Stars, insisted that Ghana should instead look for an experienced foreign tactician in the mould of Mariano Barreto or Milovan Rajevac.

"Looking at where we are now after parting ways with Otto Addo, we need to go for the best. For the next six months, I would not recommend appointing a Ghanaian coach. From my experience, they have not been able to effectively control their camp."

Appiah, who guided Ghana to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, has been among the names linked to the vacant role following Otto Addo's dismissal.

However, Thompson believes the former captain lacks the firmness required to handle the pressures of a World Cup campaign.

The GFA is expected to announce a new head coach within the week as preparations continue ahead of Ghana's friendly against Mexico in May. The Black Stars have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama for the 2026 World Cup.