The Ghana Football Association (GFA) recently revealed the steep financial cost of its decision to part ways with former Black Stars coach Milovan Rajevac. According to Henry Asante Twum, the GFA’s Communications Director, the Serbian coach was paid over $100,000 in compensation following his abrupt dismissal after a disappointing performance at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon.

Rajevac, who had been hired to replace CK Akonnor, saw his tenure end in turmoil when Ghana crashed out during the group stages. The sacking came on the heels of a directive from the Ministry of Youth and Sports to overhaul the Black Stars Management Committee.

Speaking to Joy Sports, Asante Twum detailed the financial hurdles the GFA faced in settling Rajevac’s arrears. “When Milo was fired, it became an issue because he didn’t have time to waste, so he went to FIFA. FIFA ruled in his favour, and we had to pay over $100,000, about $117,000 or so,” he disclosed.

Despite appeals for support from the Ministry, the GFA was left to foot the bill. This financial strain has since influenced how the association approaches similar situations, including deliberations over Otto Addo’s future as head coach.

Addo has faced sharp criticism after failing to qualify the Black Stars for the 2025 AFCON tournament, marking Ghana’s first absence from the competition in over two decades. The team finished last in Group F with just three points, prompting widespread calls for structural reforms.

The GFA’s handling of dismissals and its struggles with performance at major tournaments have sparked intense scrutiny. Many believe that beyond coaching changes, deeper systemic changes are needed to restore the Black Stars’ glory days.