The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced the dissolution of the Black Stars Management Committee following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This decision comes after the Black Stars concluded their AFCON qualification campaign with only three points, finishing last in Group F.

GFA’s Official Statement

In a press release issued on November 21, 2024, the GFA expressed regret over the team’s performance and extended its sincerest apologies to the Ghanaian people. The Executive Council, at its meeting on November 20, 2024, took the key decision to dissolve the Management Committee, thanking its members for their service to Ghana Football over the years.

Black Stars’ Performance

The Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the continental tournament marks a significant low point, as it is the first time in 21 years that Ghana will not be participating in the AFCON. The team’s performance in the qualifiers included three draws and three defeats, resulting in their last-place finish in the group. Fans and football analysts alike have expressed disappointment and called for immediate changes to address the underlying issues.

Measures to Address Decline

As part of measures to address this decline, the GFA announced plans to organize a retreat to gather ideas on improving the performance of the Black Stars and Ghanaian football as a whole. The retreat will take place on November 28, 2024, at the Ghanaman Soccer Center of Excellence, with stakeholders such as SWAG, the media, the National Sports Authority, PFAG, former captains and players, coaches, supporters, football enthusiasts, sports-related professionals, and opinion leaders invited to participate.

Meeting with Head Coach Otto Addo

The GFA also plans to meet with Otto Addo, the head coach of the Black Stars, on November 27, 2024, to discuss his technical report on the just-ended AFCON qualifiers and the overall performance of the technical team since he assumed duty earlier this year. This meeting aims to gather insights and develop a roadmap for enhancing the performance of the Black Stars and other national teams. Otto Addo’s future with the team may also be evaluated, depending on the outcomes of these discussions.

Commitment to Improvement

The GFA’s decision to dissolve the Management Committee and hold a retreat reflects its commitment to addressing the issues that led to the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the AFCON. The association acknowledges the disappointment and frustration this failure has caused and is determined to make amends in the future. By taking proactive steps to involve a broad range of stakeholders, the GFA is showing its dedication to making substantial changes.

Stakeholders’ Involvement

The planned retreat and discussions with key stakeholders indicate the GFA’s proactive approach to involving various segments of the football community in the process of rebuilding and improving Ghanaian football. By seeking input from a diverse group of individuals, the GFA aims to create a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of the national team’s recent struggles. This inclusive approach ensures that all voices are heard and considered in the decision-making process.

Future Prospects

While the dissolution of the Black Stars Management Committee marks the end of one chapter, it also signals the beginning of a new era for Ghanaian football. The GFA’s commitment to holding retreats, engaging with stakeholders, and assessing the performance of the technical team demonstrates a forward-thinking approach aimed at long-term success. The focus will be on developing a more robust football infrastructure, improving player development programs, and ensuring that the national team is better prepared for future competitions.

The dissolution of the Black Stars Management Committee and the planned retreat are significant steps towards rebuilding and improving Ghanaian football. The GFA’s proactive approach demonstrates its dedication to enhancing the performance of the Black Stars and ensuring that such failures are not repeated in the future. By involving a wide range of stakeholders and thoroughly evaluating the team’s performance, the GFA aims to create a solid foundation for future success. The football community and fans alike will be watching closely to see how these changes unfold and their impact on the national team’s future performance.

Source: adomonline.com