Former Black Stars coach reflects on managing a football-obsessed nation

Chris Hughton knew football was a way of life in Ghana, but experiencing it firsthand was an entirely different challenge. The former Brighton and Nottingham Forest manager took charge of the Black Stars in 2023, stepping into a role that carried immense national expectations.

For Hughton, the passion of Ghanaians for their national team was undeniable. “One thing Ghanaians love, apart from the English Premier League, is the Black Stars,” he said, acknowledging the deep football culture that enveloped the country.

His journey with Ghana, however, was short-lived. After serving as a technical advisor under Otto Addo, he took over the reins but faced the harsh reality of international football. The Black Stars’ failure to progress beyond the group stage at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations ultimately led to his departure.

Reflecting on his tenure, Hughton admitted that managing a national team differed vastly from club football. Unlike daily interactions with players at club level, international managers work with limited time to instill their philosophies. But the pressure? That was something he had anticipated.

“I knew the pressure of taking the job when I took it, and if you’re not getting the right results, then you will know about it,” he said.

Despite the challenges, the 65-year-old remains eager to continue his journey in football. “I still have a lot of energy, and I’d like to continue in the game,” he stated, leaving the door open for his next adventure.