Coach Abio has backed the former Ghana coach’s decision to resign, insisting that the coach was right to speak out about the challenges within the national team setup.
Speaking on Ahotor FM’s Adekyee Mu Nsem programme with Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra, Coach Abio said Ghanaians were given false hope ahead of the tournament because the team lacked adequate preparation. He noted that Panama was widely considered the weakest side in Ghana’s group, yet the Black Stars failed to capitalize due to poor planning.
According to him, Ghana has struggled with poor football administration over the past decade. He said the former coach inherited an unplanned and disorganized system, marked by inadequate accommodation arrangements and administrative shortcomings.
“The coach was 100% right. What he witnessed reflected the lack of planning and poor administration that has affected our football for years,” Coach Abio said.
He stressed that football tournaments are not won through luck or individual talent alone but through meticulous planning, professional structures, and effective administration.
Coach Abio explained that countries that consistently succeed invest heavily in football infrastructure. He cited examples of nations that import specialized soil to construct world-class pitches and training facilities because they recognize that proper preparation is the foundation of success.
“The world is moving forward through science, technology, and professionalism, while we are still trying to catch up. We need both evolution and a complete revolution in the way we manage football,” he said.
He called on the Ghana Football Association to appoint a substantive Black Stars coach on a four-year contract, arguing that coaches need stability and sufficient time to build a competitive national team.
According to him, the coach should be given the opportunity to oversee two Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaigns and one FIFA World Cup cycle before being assessed against clearly defined targets.
Coach Abio also proposed that the Black Stars should be supported by a team of top-class professionals, including experienced assistant coaches, video analysts, nutritionists, sports psychologists, and performance experts.
“The Black Stars should not rely solely on big-name players. We must develop the next generation and build a strong football structure. Success comes when every department is managed by top professionals,” he noted.
He further urged the authorities to invest in youth development to ensure a steady pipeline of quality players for the national team. He also criticized the current financial reward system, saying competitive bonuses, allowances, and proper motivation are essential for success in modern football.
“Football today is driven by psychology, planning, and professionalism. We cannot expect better results if we fail to reward players and staff appropriately,” he said.
Coach Abio concluded by urging Ghana to raise its ambitions at major tournaments.
“Our goal should not simply be to qualify or reach the group stage. With proper planning, quality staffing, sound administration, and sustained investment, Ghana should be competing for trophies and reaching the latter stages of major tournaments,” he said.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah
