Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston says he would welcome the chance to become Black Stars head coach if the Ghana Football Association (GFA) decides to approach him, but insists the national team’s recovery must be built around a long-term plan rather than immediate expectations.
Ghana are currently considering the future direction of the Black Stars after their elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the position of head coach Carlos Queiroz uncertain following the team’s departure from the tournament.
Queiroz was appointed on a short-term deal in April after the dismissal of Otto Addo and appeared to suggest he was stepping away from the role after Ghana’s World Cup exit, saying in a social media message that he left the position with pride.
As the GFA begins to assess its options for the next stage of the national team, Kingston has indicated that he would be prepared to take up the challenge of leading the four-time African champions.
However, the former midfielder believes Ghana’s priority should not simply be finding a coach capable of delivering immediate success. Instead, he wants the country to establish a structured rebuilding programme that gives a manager enough time to develop a competitive team.
Speaking on Joy Prime, Kingston called for patience and argued that Ghana must commit to a project lasting several years to restore the Black Stars to a stronger position.
“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,” the former Ghana international said.
Kingston believes Ghana’s approach should focus on creating a squad capable of competing in future tournaments rather than placing pressure on a new coach to win trophies immediately.
“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.
The former Black Stars player also stressed the importance of having a settled group of players in place before major competitions 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 Kingston is currently working as head coach of Uganda’s Under-17 national team, he admitted that managing Ghana’s senior side would represent a special opportunity.
The former midfielder said he remains happy with his current position but would be honoured if the opportunity to lead the Black Stars came his way.
“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 has previous experience working within Ghana’s national team structure, having last coached the Black Starlets three years ago.
His reputation as a coach has grown since taking charge of Uganda’s Under-17 team, where he guided the East African side to qualification for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup after defeating Ghana in the qualifying play-offs.
His comments come as the GFA faces an important decision over the future of the Black Stars following another disappointing international campaign.
While Ghana search for the right direction, Kingston believes a clear vision, patience and proper planning will be essential if the national team is to return to competing at the highest level.
