Why Otto Addo deserves to remain
The Ghanaian soccer fraternity is abuzz with requires Otto Addo’s ouster following the Black Stars’ underwhelming efficiency within the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying marketing campaign the place the 4 occasions champions didn’t safe a spot within the continent’s most prestigious competitors for the primary time in 24 years.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) remained silent on Otto Addo’s future at their Executive Committee Members (EXCO) assembly on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, following the Black Stars’ dismal 2025 AFCON qualifying shows. However, an in depth evaluation of Otto’s second tenure, accompanied by his report and a top level view of technical challenges encountered, is slated for submission to the GFA’s Executive Council members subsequent Wednesday.
While the disappointments are comprehensible, it’s important to contemplate the larger image and the components that recommend Otto Addo ought to stay on the helm.
In mild of this, 3Sports takes a complete evaluation of three the explanation why Otto Addo ought to stay because the gaffer of the senior nationwide group.
1. Backing from outstanding figures.
Otto Addo has garnered vital backing from revered former gamers and well-liked figures , together with Laryea Kingston, Ibrahim Tanko, and Sannie Daara kind GFA Communications Director
Laryea Kingston, a former Black Stars midfielder, has been vocal about his assist for Otto Addo, arguing that Addo needs to be retained to supervise the remaining 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Sannie Daara, former GFA Communications Director believes Otto’s observe report demonstrates his functionality, citing his function in securing Ghana’s qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar as a first-rate instance.
Ibrahim Tanko, former Local Black Stars (Black Stars B) coach believes the previous Borussia Dortmund expertise coach should be saved on the job regardless of their failure.
These soccer luminaries have witnessed the interior workings of the nationwide group earlier than and perceive the complexities of the game. Their endorsement of Addo speaks volumes about Otto’s capabilities and imaginative and prescient for Ghanaian soccer.
2. Otto’s efficiency within the 2026 World Cup qualifiers
Beyond the endorsement of former gamers and a few well-liked figures, Ghana’s efficiency within the 2026 AFCON qualifiers affords a compelling purpose to retain Addo. The group has proven promise, navigating the early levels with aplomb.
The Black Stars at the moment occupy the second place in Group I’s World Cup qualifiers after 4 video games, degree on factors with Comoros, who sit on the summit.
Strong showings by the Black Stars within the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, notably the 4-3 win in opposition to Central Africa Republic and 2-1 victory at Mali’s Bamako, bolster the case for Otto Addo staying on.
Although Ghana didn’t qualify for the 2025 AFCON underneath Otto, securing the 2026 World Cup qualification with him could be a larger accomplishment, contemplating the latter’s larger significance.
3. Financial implications
The monetary penalties of terminating Addo’s three-year contract can’t be ignored. The GFA would incur vital prices, diverting sources that might be higher utilized to develop grassroots soccer or improve the nationwide group’s infrastructure because the 49-year-old gaffer earns about $50,000 each month which is about $600,000 per yr .
With Ghana already indebted to previous coaches like CK Akonnor and Chris Hughton over unpaid salaries from terminated contracts, the GFA ought to chorus from including monetary pressure amidst the nation’s precarious financial state.
It’s important to acknowledge that AFCON qualification setbacks usually are not unprecedented in Ghana’s soccer historical past. The Black Stars have confronted comparable disappointments up to now(1972, 1974, 1986, 1994, and 2004), solely to bounce again stronger. Patience and continuity are very important in soccer, and Addo deserves the chance to rectify the group’s shortcomings.
Addo’s expertise as a former worldwide participant and his involvement in German soccer, the place he coached Borussia Dortmund’s youth groups, make him a super candidate to steer Ghana’s soccer resurgence. His understanding of the fashionable sport and skill to adapt techniques mid-game are worthwhile property.
While critics level to the AFCON qualifiers as proof of Addo’s incompetence, it’s essential to look at the broader context. Injuries to key gamers, lack of cohesion because of frequent modifications, dangerous infrastructure and the challenges of navigating a transitional section have all contributed to the group’s struggles.
Rather than dismissing Addo, the GFA ought to give attention to strengthening the assist buildings round him. Enhancing scouting networks, bettering participant improvement applications, and fostering a extra collaborative setting between coaches and gamers might help deal with the group’s weaknesses.
As Ghanaian soccer navigates this crucial juncture, it’s important to prioritize stability and long-term development over knee-jerk reactions. By giving Otto Addo the time and sources he wants, the Black Stars can overcome their present challenges and reclaim their standing as a continental pressure.
