Calls to sack Otto Addo, Ghana’s head coach unwarranted, says Accra Lions coach
Accra Lions head coach Ibrahim Tanko has defended Otto Addo despite the Black Stars’ disappointing failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Ghana finished last in Group F with three points, failing to secure a single victory after three draws and three losses.
The team’s poor performance has sparked widespread calls for Otto Addo and his technical team to be dismissed. However, Tanko believes that sacking the coach is not the solution. Instead, he argues for providing Addo with the necessary support to succeed.
“I don’t believe the job is too big for him. He came in at a very challenging time. Remember, he took us to the World Cup in Qatar, though the performance wasn’t as expected, and then he was replaced by Chris Hughton, who was the technical director,” Tanko said in an interview with Flashscore.
Tanko acknowledged the immense pressure surrounding Otto Addo’s return to the role but insisted the coach deserves more time. “His return was always going to come with pressure. I don’t believe we should sack him; instead, we need to give him a chance. With the World Cup qualifiers coming up, should we really be bringing in a new coach?”
He also raised practical concerns, noting Addo’s recently signed three-year contract. “He just signed a three-year contract – if you sack him, you’ll have to pay. Plus, there’s no guarantee that the next coach will make an immediate impact,” Tanko explained.
The Ghana Football Association’s Executive Council is expected to meet soon to decide Otto Addo’s fate as debates about the team’s future continue.
