Former Black Stars Player Criticizes Technical Staff’s Inexperience

In the wake of Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), legendary Ghanaian footballer Charles Taylor has called for a shake-up in the Black Stars’ technical team. Speaking passionately during an interview on Angel TV, Taylor criticized head coach Otto Addo’s choice of backroom staff, singling out former defender John Paintsil as unfit for his role.

“If you pick John Paintsil as an assistant, are you a good coach?” Taylor questioned. “Paintsil himself admitted he hadn’t reached that level yet, but he was given the role. I don’t know if the GFA or Otto Addo makes these decisions, but the current technical team won’t help him succeed.”

Taylor’s remarks came shortly after reports emerged that Otto Addo had cited the lack of experience in his support staff as a significant factor in Ghana’s AFCON qualification woes. During a meeting with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council on November 27, Addo reportedly expressed concerns about the competence of his team.

Taylor, a Hearts of Oak legend, expressed doubt about Addo’s capability to lead Ghana to success, given the current technical setup. “With this wealth of talented players, why can’t you qualify from a group that includes Sudan, Angola, and Niger?” he lamented.

The GFA, however, remains undecided on Otto Addo’s future, stating that consultations with stakeholders, including political figures, would determine the way forward.