Black Stars head coach, Carlos Queiroz, has bid an emotional farewell to Ghana following his stint with the Black Stars, reflecting on his tenure with a call for long-term structural improvements in the country’s football development system.

In a Facebook post addressed to Ghana, Queiroz said football, like life, teaches the lesson that “you either win or you learn,” adding that he leaves with pride in the progress made but also a sense of “healthy dissatisfaction” and the belief that more could have been achieved.

“I leave this journey with pride in what we achieved, but also with the healthy dissatisfaction of those who always wanted more,” he said. “Reaching a higher level should never be the destination—it should be the beginning of even greater ambitions.”

Queiroz stressed that the future success of the team would depend not only on on-field performance but also on strong institutional support and preparation structures.

“The future of the Black Stars will not be built only on the pitch. Black Stars success must start off the field, by creating the best possible environment to prepare, protect and develop Ghana’s extraordinary football talent,” he wrote.

Queiroz expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for the opportunity to manage the national team. “To my President and Board, thank you so much for the opportunity to serve the Ghana National Football Team. It was an honour and privilege to serve the country and the Black Stars,” he said.

He also praised the players and technical staff for their commitment and dedication during his tenure. “To my players and staff, my deepest gratitude for your courage, commitment and unwavering dedication to the team,” he added.

Turning to supporters, Queiroz acknowledged that the team did not achieve full sporting satisfaction but insisted that progress had been made in restoring respect for the Black Stars on the global stage.

“To the fans, we cannot claim complete sporting satisfaction, but we can proudly say that we honoured the colours of Ghana and restored respect and credibility to the Black Stars on football’s greatest stage,” he said.

He concluded with a message of hope for the future, saying: “Thank you, Ghana. The journey starts now. To the future.” 

Queiroz was unveiled on Thursday, April 23, 2026, by the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Mr Kofi Adams, following the departure of Otto Addo, and was tasked with leading the Black Stars to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to Mr Adams, Ghana’s agreement with the Portuguese tactician was for a short-term arrangement tied to the tournament.

“The condition Ghana agreed was that we were going for a short-term contract, maximum four months, for the period of the World Cup, but the performance would determine any further agreement,” the Minister explained.

However, Ghana's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign has come to a disappointing end after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32.