Ghana ushered in a new era on Thursday.An era that is 73 years strong and 43 years deep in football management.
Carlos Queiroz has been handed a short-term contract (four months) to lead the Black Stars to the 2026 World Cup.
Following his interaction with the media, where he opened up on how he would want to attack and defend as a collective unit, 3Sports takes a look at eligible uncapped Ghanaian players who could potentially benefit from the strategy of the coach, as well as his merit-based approach selection procedure.
Prince Amoako Junior – Nordsjaelland (19)
At Nordsjaelland, Prince Amoako Junior is a star. Among the first names on the teamsheet, the 19-year-old attacker is blessed with pace, trickery, and the ability to glide past opponents. Off the ball, his defensive work rate is commendable, often doubling up with his full back to keep opponents out. His 12-goal involvements in 27 league games have made him a hot prospect for clubs in Europe.
In transitional phases of play, his pace could be used to devastating effect for Ghana.
Augustine Boakye – St. Etienne (25)
At 25, Boakye has yet to feature for the Black Stars. A natural replacement for the doubtful Kudus in the attacking midfield role, and a creative spark, Boakye’s ingenuity, and his knack of scoring, in addition to his dynamism, could woo Quieroz. With 13 goal involvements in 28 games for St. Etienne, the former WAFA player, is in top form.
Manu Duah – San Diego (20)
Quieroz likes to move players around to achieve the best possible outcome like any other coach. Duah, who is versatilie and can play both at center back and midfield, could be a possible candidate to fit Quieroz’s “total football system.”
Hafiz Gariba – Barcelona Athletic (19)
Young, athletic, and energetic, Gariba is seen as a long-term solution for Ghana’s defence for years. At 19, his awareness, calmness, and ball playing ability belie his age. His 6’2 frame makes him an aerial threat from set pieces in both boxes.
Salim Adams – Medeama (23)
“Bend them like Salim.” The Medeama midfielder has a penchant for scoring from set pieces, with more than half of his goals in the ongoing Ghana Premier League season coming from such situations.
A key cog for Medeama, Salim’s attacking efficiency and defensive solidity, coupled with his passing range, could see him make the cut.
