I’ll help secure World Cup spot for Black Stars — Assures Schäfer

GFA Technical Director Winfried Schäfer has assured Ghanaians of his full commitment to working alongside Black Stars head coach Otto Addo to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Schäfer, who arrived in Ghana last week ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifiers, took to Facebook to outline his ambitions. 

But while securing a spot at the tournament remains a priority, the veteran German coach stressed that his vision extended beyond immediate success to the broader development of football in the country.

"But I want to assure you today that we will not only focus on improving and developing our national team to qualify and represent Ghana in the USA, Mexico, and Canada in the best way possible. We also aim to enhance football from the grassroots level up to the national team for the benefit of the entire Ghana football community," he wrote.

At 75, the experienced German tactician, who famously led Cameroun to Africa Cup of Nations glory in 2002, insists his vision is all-encompassing, ensuring that every footballer, regardless of status, benefits from an improved footballing environment.

"It doesn’t matter if you’re already a superstar in your club or just made it onto the bench—we will work to improve conditions that help you develop. We want to support every club, big or small, as well as academies and schools, while also striving to build valuable national and international partnerships," Schaefer added.

He called for unity among all stakeholders, emphasising that success would require a collective effort.

New-look technical team 

The GFA recently overhauled the Black Stars’ technical setup, bringing in Schaefer to lead a backroom shake-up designed to restore Ghana’s footballing pedigree.

With a managerial career spanning over four decades, the German has been brought in as a technical advisor to work closely with Otto Addo in assembling a competitive squad.

Additionally, he will oversee Ghana’s long-term football development strategy as Director of Football at the GFA.

Schäfer boasts an impressive coaching CV, having managed national teams such as Cameroon, Thailand, and Jamaica, alongside European clubs including Borussia Mönchengladbach, Karlsruher SC, VfB Stuttgart, and Tennis Borussia Berlin.

His wealth of experience, particularly his AFCON triumph with Cameroon, is expected to instil a winning mentality in the Black Stars.

Joining him in the revamped setup is Coach Desmond Ofei, who played a pivotal role in revitalising Ghana’s Under-20 side and led the team to gold at the 2023 African Games. Recently named the 2024 SWAG Coach of the Year, Ofei steps in as assistant coach, bringing a sharp tactical mind and an innovative approach to the technical team.