From Ferguson’s Right-Hand Man to Black Stars saviour: 10 reasons Carlos Queiroz can shock England & Croatia at 2026 World Cup

When Carlos Queiroz stood alongside Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, he was often described as the quiet architect behind one of football’s most dominant eras.

Now, decades later, he arrives in Ghana with a different mission — to transform the Black Stars into genuine contenders capable of unsettling heavyweights like England national football team and Croatia national football team at the 2026 World Cup.

Here are ten reasons why that bold ambition may not be far-fetched:

1. Elite Tactical Discipline

Queiroz’s teams are notoriously difficult to break down. His structured defensive systems could give Ghana the resilience needed against Europe’s elite attacking sides.

2. World Cup Pedigree

Few coaches in international football boast his experience. From guiding Portugal national football team to managing Iran national football team across multiple tournaments, Queiroz understands the unique pressures of the global stage.

3. Master of the Underdog Role

His Iran side famously pushed giants to the brink, frustrating teams with far greater individual talent. That same blueprint could serve Ghana well.

4. Defensive Organisation

Against teams like England and Croatia, shape and discipline are everything. Queiroz builds compact units that limit space and force opponents into mistakes.

5. Experience Against Top Nations

He has faced — and often troubled — elite teams throughout his career, including narrow contests against European heavyweights in past tournaments.

6. Player Development Pedigree

At Manchester United, Queiroz played a key role in nurturing talents like Cristiano Ronaldo, refining raw ability into world-class performance — a skill Ghana’s young core could benefit from.

7. Calm Under Pressure

International tournaments demand composure. Queiroz brings a measured, analytical approach that contrasts with emotional decision-making under pressure.

8. Tactical Flexibility

He is not rigid. Whether deploying a low block, counter-attacking setup, or controlled possession, Queiroz adapts to the opponent — a crucial trait against varied World Cup opposition.

9. Short-Term Tournament Specialist

With Ghana’s focus squarely on 2026, his history of quickly organizing teams into competitive units makes him an ideal short-term appointment.

10. Hunger for Redemption

After mixed spells in recent roles, Queiroz arrives with a point to prove. That personal motivation could translate into a fiercely driven Black Stars side.

For the Ghana Football Association, this is a calculated gamble on experience over experimentation. For Ghanaian fans, it is a flicker of hope that the Black Stars can once again punch above their weight.

Queiroz will meet the players next month when the Black Stars regroup for an international friendly against Mexico, followed by another preparatory match against Wales on June 2.

Ghana, preparing for its fifth World Cup appearance, has been drawn in Group L for the 2026 tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The Black Stars will open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before facing England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.

After underwhelming outings at the 2014 and 2022 tournaments, Queiroz will be tasked with steering Ghana to a stronger showing on the global stage.