The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has appointed Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren as an assistant coach of the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be staged in North America.
Björkegren’s appointment was confirmed alongside that of Alan Ravara, with both coaches added to the senior national team’s technical setup as part of efforts to reinforce the backroom staff for the tournament, scheduled for June and July 2026.
The Swedish tactician has been based in Ghana since 2025, following his appointment as head coach of the Black Queens after replacing Nora Häuptle.
During his tenure, Björkegren guided the women’s national team to a bronze medal at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and successfully secured qualification for the 2026 WAFCON, earning plaudits for his tactical organization and player development.
His new role means Björkegren will now serve in a dual capacity, contributing to both the men’s and women’s national teams. His inclusion comes as Desmond Offei and John Paintsil step down from their roles with the Black Stars technical team.
Further additions to the Black Stars’ backroom staff include José Daniel Martínez Alfonso, who joins as scout and video analyst, while Carlos Lozano Romero has been named team physiotherapist. Dwayne Peasah Paa Kwesi also returns to the setup as performance coach.
The Black Stars will open their World Cup campaign against Panama in Toronto, before taking on England and Croatia in the United States, as Ghana aim to make a strong impact on football’s biggest stage