Former Senegal coach Pape Thiaw emerges as candidate for Ghana job after Queiroz exit

Former Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has reportedly emerged as one of the candidates being considered by the Ghanaian football authorities for the vacant Black Stars job.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has begun the search for a new head coach for the Black Stars following the departure of Portuguese tactician Carlos Queiroz.

Queiroz stepped down from his position on October 1 after a disappointing start to Ghana’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, leaving the GFA with the task of finding a new manager to lead the national team.

Thiaw is currently unattached after ending his spell as coach of Senegal following the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The 45-year-old has gained significant experience at international level, having been in charge of the Teranga Lions between 2024 and 2026. His time with Senegal included a strong run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where he guided the West African giants to the final.

Thiaw also oversaw Senegal’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further strengthening his credentials as a coach with experience of managing a high-profile African national team and competing at the highest level of international football.

His familiarity with African football and experience working with established international players could make him an attractive option for the GFA as it assesses potential replacements for Queiroz.

The Black Stars are now facing an important period, with the GFA expected to carefully consider the profile of the next coach as Ghana seeks to rebuild momentum and improve its performances in the ongoing AFCON qualifying campaign.

While no final decision has been announced, Thiaw’s name is reportedly among those under consideration as Ghana begins the process of appointing a new manager to steer the national team through its next phase.