2027 AFCON: Carlos Queiroz calls for greater investment in youth football, pitches

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has called for greater investment in youth football and infrastructure, saying Ghana’s long-term success cannot depend solely on the senior national team. Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against The Gambia, Queiroz said Ghana has the talent to compete for major trophies but needs a stronger system to develop players. 

“Ghana has all the conditions to win trophies. But you cannot put your resources in one basket, players or coach,” Queiroz said.“You have to put resources into player development at the youth level and pitches. If you fail in those compartments, you cannot succeed.”

Queiroz’s call for better facilities comes amid a recent public exchange between GFA President Kurt Okraku and Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah over the state of Ghana’s football pitches. The MP had criticised the condition of some AstroTurf facilities, prompting Okraku to question what facilities had been provided in his constituency. The exchange has added to the wider debate over investment in football infrastructure and youth development in Ghana.

The Portuguese coach also stressed the need to improve playing and training facilities at youth level and create a clearer pathway for young players into the national teams. Queiroz said frequent changes to the senior squad also make it difficult to build a settled team.

His comments come as Ghana prepare to host The Gambia at the Accra  Sports Stadium on Tuesday in their second Group C match of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. Kickoff is at 4 pm.