Hans Sarpei Questions GFA Decision to Sack Otto Addo Ahead of World Cup

Former Ghana defender Hans Adu Sarpei has criticized the Ghana Football Association for dismissing Otto Addo, arguing that the timing of the decision could disrupt the Black Stars’ preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Addo was relieved of his duties after consecutive friendly defeats to Austria and Germany, a move that has sparked mixed reactions across Ghana’s football landscape.

Sarpei, who represented Ghana at the 2006 FIFA World Cup and 2010 FIFA World Cup, believes the decision places too much weight on results from non-competitive matches.

Speaking to Joy Sports, he insisted that friendly games should not be used as the primary benchmark for assessing a coach’s long-term suitability.

“When we didn’t qualify for the [AFCON], there was a lot of shouting,” Sarpei said.

“Then he qualified us for the World Cup. He brought the team to the World Cup; he should go with the team [to the World Cup]. World Cup and friendly games are totally different,” he added.

Sarpei further emphasized that Addo had earned the opportunity to lead Ghana at the global tournament after guiding the team through a challenging qualification campaign.

The decision to part ways with the coach, however, signals a shift in direction by the GFA as they seek to steady the team following recent setbacks.

With the World Cup fast approaching, attention now turns to the appointment of a successor, as Ghana looks to rebuild momentum and confidence ahead of the tournament.