GFA insider addresses rumors of John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann being sacked as Black Stars Coaches

Henry Asante Twum, the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has addressed recent media reports suggesting that John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann are about to be dismissed from their roles with the Black Stars.

Local media outlets this week reported that Paintsil and Laumann could be let go less than a year after replacing George Boateng and Didi Dramani as assistant coaches for the Black Stars. This follows criticism of the team’s technical staff after failing to qualify Ghana for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Otto Addo and his staff have faced heavy backlash, with some calling for a complete overhaul of the technical team.

Although the GFA reportedly wants to keep Otto Addo, it seems other members, particularly Paintsil and Laumann, may face the axe.

Asante Twum confirmed in an interview on Max FM’s Sports Pack show that changes are indeed forthcoming after a thorough assessment. However, he quickly refuted the claims that the two assistant coaches would be the ones to lose their positions.

At the last Executive Council (ExCo) meeting, after Otto Addo presented his technical report, it was decided that the performance of every individual within the team—ranging from the head coach and assistant coaches to the video analyst, medical staff, team doctor, physiotherapists, media team, and even equipment officers—would be assessed.

The performance of everyone closely involved with the team was reviewed, and it was determined that some changes would be needed in certain areas.

However, I have not been informed about who will be sacked or who their replacements will be. Therefore, I’m not in a position to confirm any news regarding exits or new appointments.

He did, however, mention that these changes would likely be made soon, probably before the next international break in March.

Asante Twum seemed to confirm that Paintsil visited the GFA office this week, where he was reportedly informed about his potential dismissal. However, he was hesitant to confirm the exact day and withheld further details.

He also stated that he was unaware of any ongoing talks between the Association and a Serbian or Belgian coach to replace the duo, as he is not involved in the decision-making process at the GFA.

By: Emmanuel Turkson.