Former Ghana coach Charlse Kwablan Akonnor sheds light on the challenging nature of being the Black Stars coach, revealing the overwhelming pressure that accompanies the position.
In acknowledging the difficulties, he draws parallels with the current predicament faced by Chris Hughton, emphasizing the confusion that can arise amidst threats and rumors of potential dismissal.
Reflecting on Hughton’s situation, particularly after setbacks against Mexico and USA in October’s international friendlies, Akonnor empathizes with the former Brighton and Hove Albion boss. The Ghana Football Association’s threat to terminate Hughton’s tenure loomed large, yet governmental approval remained elusive.
“I know what he is going through. It’s a difficult time. Sometimes, you can get confused, especially when the whole nation comes at you,” shares Akonnor, drawing from his own experiences as the former Asante Kotoko coach, expressing understanding of the immense pressure faced by national team coaches.
In the face of adversity, Akonnor advocates for composure, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a calm demeanor. He stresses the necessity for tranquility to enable adequate preparation, focus, and the development of a strategic approach for the upcoming tournament.
“It’s a big deal for us as a football nation, but we need to calm down and allow him to prepare the team adequately so we can go to this tournament and do well,” adds Akonnor, urging patience and support for Hughton as he navigates the challenges leading up to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Black Stars are gearing up for a competitive group stage, set to face Egypt, Mozambique, and Cape Verde in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations hosted in Ivory Coast.
The tournament, slated to commence on January 13 and conclude on February 11, 2024, poses a significant test for both the team and its coach, with the hope that collective calmness and focused preparation will pave the way for success on the footballing stage.
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