By: Nana Kwame Bediako
Former Ghanaian international Laryea Kingston has come forward to advocate for the retention of Otto Addo as head coach of the Black Stars, despite the team’s disappointing failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
This marks the first time in two decades that Ghana will miss the prestigious tournament, leading to widespread calls for Otto Addo’s dismissal. Kingston’s support for the coach raises questions about the future direction of Ghanaian football and the stability of the national team.
Kingston, reflecting on the recent setback, emphasised the importance of continuity within the coaching staff. He believes that Otto Addo is already aware of the team’s shortcomings and is actively seeking ways to improve.
“For me, at the moment, we shouldn’t change anything,” Kingston stated, highlighting Addo’s self-awareness and commitment to the team’s success.
The former player cautioned against the potential consequences of a hasty decision to overhaul the technical team. Kingston warned that introducing new faces at this critical juncture could disrupt the team’s preparations for future competitions. “If we change the coach and the technical team and bring in new faces, it will be a disaster,” he asserted.
Kingston’s call for patience resonates with many who believe that the team needs time to gel and find its footing. He suggested that allowing Addo to continue through the World Cup qualifiers could yield positive results. “I think we should allow him to at least finish the World Cup qualifiers—who knows? Maybe he can qualify,” Kingston remarked.
With the stakes higher than ever, the Ghana Football Association faces a critical decision that could shape the future of Ghanaian football for years to come. Whether they heed Kingston’s advice remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the road ahead will require careful consideration and a steady hand.
