In the aftermath of Ghana’s shocking failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, former Black Stars coach Charles Akonnor has issued a passionate plea to the country’s football leaders: start fixing Ghana football from the grassroots. This marks the first time in 21 years that the four-time African champions will miss out on Africa’s biggest football showcase, a painful reminder of the decline that has crept into Ghanaian football since its golden days.

Speaking to Joy FM, Akonnor—who coached the Black Stars from 2019 to 2021—emphasized the need to prioritize youth national teams as the foundation for rebuilding.

“We need to look at our youth football. If we don’t do it now, we are already late,” Akonnor said. “Where did the Asamoah Gyans, the Stephen Appiahs, and Laryea Kingstons—the best generation we have had—come from? It was through strong youth systems.”

He pointed to the critical role of Ghana’s U-17 and U-20 teams, as well as the Black Stars B (the local-based national team), in grooming the stars of yesterday who brought the nation glory. Without revitalizing these youth structures, he warned, the senior team will continue to struggle.

Ghana’s dismal qualification campaign concluded with a 2-1 defeat to Niger in Kumasi, a bitter end that underscores the urgency of Akonnor’s call.

As fans mourn this setback, Akonnor’s words offer a potential roadmap for the future: start at the roots, invest in youth football, and restore the pride of Ghana on the global stage.