Carlos Queiroz has penned an emotional farewell message to Ghana after bringing his short spell as Black Stars head coach to an end, believing the country’s football future must be built on stronger foundations beyond what happens on the pitch.
The Portuguese tactician, who took charge of Ghana in April after replacing Otto Addo, shared the message on his verified social media account following the Black Stars’ elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Although his tenure lasted only a few months, Queiroz guided Ghana beyond the group stage before their campaign ended with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32.
Addressing the nation, the experienced coach reflected on the campaign with pride while admitting there was still room for greater ambition.
“Football, like life, teaches us one timeless lesson: you either win or you learn.
“I leave this journey with pride in what we achieved, but also with the healthy dissatisfaction of those who always wanted more. Reaching a higher level should never be the destination it should be the beginning of even greater ambitions.”
Queiroz also stressed that sustained success for the Black Stars would depend on long-term planning away from matchdays.
“The future of the Black Stars will not be built only on the pitch,” he wrote.
“Black Stars success must start off the field, by creating the best possible environment to prepare, protect and develop Ghana’s extraordinary football talent.”
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The former Portugal, Iran, Egypt and Colombia coach thanked the Ghana Football Association leadership for the opportunity to manage one of Africa’s most successful national teams.
“To my President and Board, thank you so much for the opportunity to serve the Ghana National Football Team. It was an honor and privilege to serve the Country and the Black Stars.”
He also paid tribute to his players and backroom staff for their commitment throughout the World Cup campaign.
“To my players and staff, my deepest gratitude for your courage, commitment and unwavering dedication to the team.”
Despite falling short of a deeper run at the tournament, Queiroz believes Ghana restored its standing on football’s biggest stage.
“To the fans, we cannot claim complete sporting satisfaction, but we can proudly say that we honoured the colours of Ghana and restored respect and credibility to the Black Stars on football’s greatest stage.”
The 73-year-old concluded his message with a note of optimism for Ghanaian football.
“Thank you, Ghana. The journey starts now.”
Queiroz was appointed just months before the World Cup following Otto Addo’s departure and inherited the difficult task of preparing the Black Stars for football’s biggest tournament in limited time.
