South African trainer Pitso Mosimane applies for vacant Ghana coaching job

Veteran South African tactician Pitso Mosimane has formally submitted an application for the vacant Black Stars head coach position, joining a crowded race to lead Ghana’s senior national team, AfricaSoccer.com can reveal.

The Ghana Football Association is searching for a new manager following the dismissal of Otto Addo on Monday, March 31. The 50-year-old, who had been in charge since March 2024, was relieved of his duties after a disappointing March international window.

Ghana endured back-to-back defeats in Europe, beginning with a heavy 5-1 loss to Austria in Vienna as part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Black Stars followed that with a 2-1 defeat to Germany in Stuttgart, further raising concerns about the team’s form.

Despite successfully guiding Ghana to qualification for the Mundial to be hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Addo’s tenure was cut short due to inconsistent performances.

GFA President Kurt Okraku has disclosed that more than 600 applications have been received for the role, with Mosimane now among the high-profile contenders.

The 59-year-old boasts an impressive résumé, having managed top sides including Supersport United, Mamelodi Sundowns, Al Ahly, Al-Ahli Jeddah, Al Wahda, Abha and Esteghlal. He is widely celebrated for winning the CAF Champions League with Sundowns and securing back-to-back titles with Al Ahly.

Mosimane has been without a club since January 2025 but remains one of the most accomplished coaches on the continent. He recently indicated openness to returning to the South African national team setup should an opportunity arise following the tenure of Hugo Broos.

With vast experience at both club and continental level, Mosimane is seen as a strong candidate capable of leading Ghana at the World Cup and restoring the team’s competitiveness ahead of the next Africa Cup of Nations, set to be hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Ghana will open their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 18, before taking on England five days later and wrapping up their group stage fixtures against Croatia on June 28.