The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has appointed Prosper Narteh Ogum as the new head coach of the national U-17 men’s football team, the Black Starlets. His appointment—just weeks before the WAFU B U-17 Championship in Nigeria—has triggered mixed reactions, with many raising concerns over the timing and its implications for team stability and development.
Ogum succeeds Frimpong Manso, who held the position for only seven months. During his brief tenure, Manso scouted extensively across the country to build a competitive squad for upcoming international competitions. However, his departure comes at a critical juncture, just a month before the team’s participation in the regional tournament.
The GFA cited Manso’s club obligations with Bibiani GoldStars—who are preparing for their CAF Champions League campaign in September—as the reason for his exit. Speaking to Joy Sports, Manso described the decision as difficult but necessary.
“September is packed with key fixtures and preparations,” Manso explained. “Splitting my attention wouldn’t benefit the U-17s, GoldStars, or myself. After discussions, we agreed this was the best path. It’s not that I didn’t want to continue, but I hope another opportunity arises in the future.”
Despite his departure, Manso expressed confidence in the team’s continuity, noting that the assistant coaches and goalkeeping trainer remain to support Ogum.
“Coach Ogum is experienced, and with the existing support staff, I don’t think the transition will disrupt the team’s development,” he added.
However, the frequent changes at the helm of the U-17 team continue to be a growing concern. Over the past year, three different coaches—Laryea Kingston, Frimpong Manso, and now Prosper Ogum—have led the side. This instability is widely seen as a major obstacle to building a consistent and competitive youth team.
Ghana’s U-17s have failed to qualify for the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations or the FIFA U-17 World Cup since 2017—a stark contrast for a nation once dominant in youth football.
Veteran journalist Godfred Akoto Boafo stressed the importance of coaching continuity at the youth level, emphasizing that the role demands full commitment.
“The U-17 job is not part-time,” Boafo stated. “You’re not just coaching; you’re developing young talent. These players need a stable figure who is actively involved in their growth.”
Boafo pointed to successful international youth systems where coaches often stay in their roles for a decade or more.
“In countries that excel in youth development, U-17 coaches remain for 10 to 15 years. But in Ghana, we treat it like a senior team, changing coaches every year. That’s not sustainable,” he added.
As the Black Starlets gear up for the WAFU B U-17 Championship in September—a qualifying tournament for the 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations—all eyes will be on Ogum. His leadership will be crucial in determining whether Ghana can re-establish its status as a powerhouse in African youth football.
There is hope that with stability and strategic direction, the Black Starlets can begin to rebuild and return to the continental and global stage.
Source: theghanareport
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