BY Issah Olegor
Former Black Stars captain Charles Akonnor has ruled out any possibility of returning as head coach of the national team following the departure of Otto Addo, leaving the technical bench in a state of uncertainty ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Ghana Football Association recently parted ways with Otto Addo after a string of disappointing results, including a 2–1 defeat to Germany in an international friendly.
The decision has intensified the search for a new head coach at a critical moment in the World Cup preparations.
C K Akonnor, who previously managed the Black Stars between 2020 and 2021, had emerged as one of the names linked to the vacant role. However, the former national team captain has made it clear he is not interested in a comeback.
“I am with Gor Mahia. I’m very happy and doing well. We are fighting for the title, and that is where my focus is,” he stated, effectively ending speculation about his return.
The 52-year-old emphasized that his commitment lies with Gor Mahia, where he is currently leading a strong campaign in the Kenyan Premier League. Under his guidance, the club is pushing for the league title after failing to secure silverware in the previous season.
C K Akonnor added that while he remains supportive of Ghana football, he has no intention of leaving his current role to take up the national team job at this time.
His decision comes at a delicate period for Ghana, who must now urgently appoint a new coach to lead the team into the World Cup.
The Black Stars have been drawn into a challenging group alongside the England national football team, Croatia national football team, and Panama national football team.
