What is our DNA? – Augustine Arhinful responds to the GFA’s criteria in search of a new Black Stars coach

In the aftermath of Chris Hughton’s exit as the head coach of the Black Stars, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) finds itself under the critical gaze of former Ghana forward, Augustine Arhinful.

In an exclusive interview on Wamputu Sports with Jefferies Sintim-Koree, Arhinful didn’t hold back as he took aim at the GFA’s criteria for the selection of the new Black Stars coach, insinuating that Ghana lacks a distinct football DNA.
In his scathing remarks, Arhinful questioned the very premise of the GFA’s strategic plan, labeling it as misguided and disconnected from the reality of Ghanaian football.

“The GFA talks about DNA, but I wonder if they even understand what it means. Do we, as a footballing nation, have a defined DNA? I’m not so sure,” Arhinful declared, his frustration evident in his tone.

Arhinful took issue with the GFA’s emphasis on finding a coach whose football philosophy aligns with Ghana’s supposed DNA. He argued that the GFA’s failure to articulate and define this DNA leaves the criteria open to interpretation, potentially leading to the appointment of a coach who may not resonate with the essence of Ghanaian football.

The former forward also criticized the GFA’s call for a proven winner, stating that success at the highest levels should not be the sole criterion. Arhinful suggested that the focus should be on nurturing and developing a team that embodies the unique qualities of Ghanaian football, rather than fixating on past achievements.

“The next Black Stars coach should be a unifier, it should be someone who will motivate the team”.

Following the dismissal of Coach Chris Hughton, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) swiftly established a committee, spearheaded by Mark Addo. Assisting him in this pivotal role is the Vice Chairman, Ace Ankomah (Esq.), a distinguished Legal Practitioner and law lecturer,Professor Joseph Kwame Mintah, the Director of Coaching Education of the GFA, Opoku Nti, a Ghanaian football legend and William Caesar Kartey, Chief Director of the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Coach Chris Hughton has become the most recent casualty in the revolving door of Black Stars coaching. Over the span of five years, Ghana has witnessed five different coaches under the leadership of the GFA, helmed by Kurt Okraku.