Carlos Queiroz quits as Ghana coach after 2026 World Cup exit
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Carlos Queiroz has resigned as head coach of the Ghana national football team, a day after the Black Stars were knocked out by Colombia in the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The departure ends a brief but high-profile tenure that began just 10 weeks before the tournament kicked off.
A Short-Term Contract, A Quick Exit
The 73-year-old Portuguese coach was brought in on a four-month contract after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) parted ways with former head coach Otto Addo. Queiroz oversaw five matches in charge, recording one win, two draws, and two defeats. Ghana scored three goals and conceded three during his tenure — a modest return that ultimately proved insufficient to advance beyond the knockout stage.
Queiroz's Farewell Message
In a farewell note posted on his official Facebook page, Queiroz struck a reflective tone. 'Football, like life, teaches us one timeless lesson; you either win or you learn. I leave this journey with pride in what we achieved, but also with the healthy dissatisfaction of those who always wanted more,' he wrote. He added: 'Reaching a higher level should never be the destination — it should be the beginning of even greater ambitions.'
Queiroz also called for structural reform beyond the pitch. 'The future of the Black Stars will not be built only on the field. 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 said.
Jordan Also Part Ways with Sellami
Queiroz was not the only World Cup manager to exit following the group stage. Jordan Football Association President Prince Ali bin Al Hussein confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Moroccan coach Jamal Sellami had been relieved of his duties after Jordan finished fourth in Group J.
'We thank you for your efforts and distinguished giving, and for your contribution to achieving the historic accomplishment of qualifying our national team to the World Cup,' Prince Ali wrote in his post. 'Your experience with the Nashama has been an exceptional one, and you will always remain a dear son to Jordan.'
Sellami's Historic Run with Jordan
Sellami had taken charge of Jordan in 2024 following the departure of fellow Moroccan coach Hussein Ammouta. Under his stewardship, Jordan secured their first-ever 2026 World Cup qualification with a decisive 3-0 victory over Oman, ending nine previous failed attempts to reach the tournament. The feat was widely regarded as one of the most significant milestones in Jordanian football history.
With both Ghana and Jordan now searching for new leadership, the post-World Cup managerial reshuffle has begun in earnest — and neither federation has yet indicated a timeline for appointing successors.