Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston has declared his readiness to coach the Black Stars if given the opportunity by the Ghana Football Association (GFA), while urging the country’s football authorities to embrace a long-term rebuilding strategy for the national team.
The future of Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz remains uncertain following Ghana’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Queiroz, who was appointed on a short-term contract in April after the dismissal of Otto Addo, suggested in a social media post after the team’s exit that his tenure had come to an end.
With the GFA expected to decide on the next direction of the senior national team, Kingston has openly stated that he would be honoured to lead the four-time African champions if called upon.
Speaking on Joy Prime, the former Black Stars midfielder emphasized that Ghana must abandon the culture of demanding immediate success and instead commit to a long-term project that prioritizes rebuilding the team.
“Now, we need to look at the long-term projects, at least five years. We shouldn’t think about getting the coach to come in, and then he has to win something now. We have to be patient and have a five-year project,” Kingston said.
According to him, the focus should be on developing a competitive and cohesive squad capable of challenging consistently in future tournaments rather than chasing instant trophies.
“The next World Cup is in four years, and even with the upcoming AFCON, we don’t need to think about winning it now. We need to be honest; we don’t have a team at the moment, so we need to hire a coach and give him at least five years and use him as a project.”
Kingston also stressed the importance of building a settled squad well ahead of major competitions instead of assembling a team shortly before tournaments begin.
“The coach should build a team for us, and we should make sure we have a team before there is a competition. We shouldn’t wait until the last minute, and then we call players to come in.”
Although he is currently enjoying his role as head coach of Uganda’s U-17 national team, the former winger admitted that leading Ghana would be the greatest honour of his coaching career.
“I have a job now, and I am happy with my job for now. I’m a Ghanaian, and I would love to hear that call [from the FA to come and coach the team]. There is no better joy than helping your country.”
Kingston last served within Ghana’s national team setup as head coach of the Black Starlets three years ago. Since taking charge of Uganda’s U-17 side, he has enjoyed impressive success, guiding the East African nation to qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup after eliminating Ghana during the qualifying play-offs.
His comments come as the GFA prepares to make a crucial decision on the future of the Black Stars following another disappointing international campaign, with calls growing for a clear long-term vision to restore Ghana’s status among Africa’s football powerhouses.
