Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has discussed the challenging decision to part ways with Black Stars head coach Otto Addo. He described this decision as necessary for the nation’s progress. In an exclusive interview with 3Sports, Okraku acknowledged that the meeting with the departing coach was emotionally difficult, especially considering the strong working relationship they had developed since 2022.
“As human as we are, I mean, and having worked since 2022, we’ve had a good working relationship. But at the end, as leaders as we are, it’s always important for us to look at ourselves in our faces and speak about issues that concern us and how we can progress as individuals and as a collective,” he said.
Okraku further elaborated that effective leadership often involves making tough decisions that serve the larger goal. He emphasised that the decision was made with a sense of collective responsibility. When discussing when the decision was reached, the GFA President highlighted the importance of being dynamic and responsive as a leader, noting that input from stakeholders played a crucial role in the process.
“First of all, I would say, without being proud, with all humility, that I’m a leader who is dynamic, I’m a leader who is honest to issues around me, and I’m a team player, which is most important. And I think that when leading the team, you may have your strong opinions about issues, but there are moments when you need to listen to the team for the greater good of our country. And at this moment, we thought it’s Ghana first, and we have to go in a different direction,” he explained.
The GFA is now expected to appoint a new head coach in the coming days as the Black Stars prepare for future international assignments.
By Emmanuel Owusu