As Ghana gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has unveiled a strengthened and multi-disciplinary technical team to support Head Coach Otto Addo on the road to the global showpiece.

Blending experience, modern analytics, sports science, and deep knowledge of Ghanaian football, the expanded backroom staff reflects a clear ambition: restore the Black Stars to international relevance after recent setbacks.

Here’s a closer look at the key figures entrusted with Ghana’s World Cup mission.

Otto Addo – Head Coach

Otto Addo remains the driving force behind the Black Stars. Reappointed to lead Ghana through the 2026 World Cup cycle, he has already delivered results, guiding the team to the top of Group I with 25 points.

A product of German Bundesliga football, Addo previously led Ghana to qualification for the 2022 World Cup, eliminating Nigeria in a dramatic playoff. His résumé includes roles at Borussia Dortmund, where he won the 2020/21 DFB-Pokal, as well as spells at Borussia Mönchengladbach, Hamburger SV, FC Nordsjælland, and scouting roles for Ghana at the 2014 World Cup and 2015 AFCON.

John Paintsil – Assistant Coach

Former Ghana international John Paintsil continues his rise in coaching after a decorated playing career. A CAF Licence B holder and current CAF Licence A candidate, Paintsil brings leadership, discipline, and a strong understanding of the Black Stars’ culture, shaped by coaching stints including Kaizer Chiefs and grassroots football development.

Winfried Schäfer – Technical Advisor

Veteran German coach Winfried Schäfer adds vast tournament and advisory experience. Best remembered for leading Cameroon to AFCON glory in 2002, Schäfer has coached national teams across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, alongside clubs in Europe and the Middle East. His strategic insight is expected to guide long-term planning and big-tournament decision-making.

Gregory De Grauwe – Head of Video Analysis

Belgian analyst Gregory De Grauwe leads opposition scouting and performance breakdowns. With experience at Sporting Lokeren and Beerschot VA, plus a UEFA Licence B, he anchors Ghana’s analytical preparation.

Desmond Ofei – Assistant Coach

Fresh from success at youth level, Desmond Ofei joins as assistant coach after guiding Ghana’s U-20 side to Africa Games gold and earning SWAG Coach of the Year (2024). His modern, data-driven approach strengthens tactical planning and player development.

Kris Perquy – Team Psychologist

Renowned sports psychologist Kris Perquy oversees mental conditioning. With 17 years’ experience and a long association with the Belgian FA, he brings elite psychological preparation to the Black Stars.

Alain Ravera – Assistant Coach

French coach Alain Ravera adds European and international depth, having worked with AS Monaco and the Guinea national team.

Kim Lars Björkegren – Assistant Coach

Swedish tactician Kim Lars Björkegren, also head coach of the Black Queens, joins in a dual role. He guided Ghana’s women to bronze at the 2025 WAFCON and secured qualification for WAFCON 2026, earning recognition for his tactical versatility and leadership.

José Daniel Martínez Alfonso – Assistant Coach & Video Analyst

Spanish analyst José Daniel Martínez Alfonso, currently with Atlanta United (MLS), strengthens scouting, match preparation, and performance analytics.

Medical, Performance & Support Staff

Carlos Lozano Romero – Team Physiotherapist

Dwayne Peasah Paa Kwesi – Performance Coach

Dr. Pambo – Team Doctor (CAF Medical Committee member & FIFA Doping Control Officer)

Bonsu Derrick Kwame – Athletic Performance Specialist

Fatawu Dauda – Goalkeepers’ Trainer

Issah Amadou & Alhassan Abdul Rahman – Equipment Officers

Ameenu Shardow – Team Administrator

With a reinforced technical structure and renewed ambition, the Black Stars are determined to move beyond the disappointments of 2014 and 2022. For a nation that once lit up the world in 2010, the objective is unmistakable: progress, pride, and a deep run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.