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Veteran football coach Carlos Queiroz is set to make World Cup history as he leads Ghana into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking his fifth consecutive appearance as a head coach at the tournament.
The 73-year-old Portuguese manager will take charge of the Black Stars in their Group L opener against Panama in Toronto, continuing a remarkable World Cup journey that began with Portugal in 2010.
After leading Portugal, Queiroz coached Iran in three consecutive World Cups in 2014, 2018 and 2022. His appearance with Ghana in 2026 sees him equal the record of five straight World Cup tournaments as a head coach, a feat previously achieved by Bora Milutinović between 1986 and 2002.
Although Queiroz now matches the record for consecutive World Cup appearances, Brazilian coach Carlos Alberto Parreira remains the manager with the most World Cup appearances overall, having participated in six editions.
The experienced tactician was not initially expected to be part of the 2026 tournament. However, Ghana appointed him as head coach in April following the dismissal of Otto Addo after a series of disappointing friendly results.
The appointment revived a coaching journey spanning more than four decades, including a stint as Real Madrid manager and a successful period as Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Manchester United.
Queiroz is highly regarded in Portugal for his contribution to youth football development. He guided Portugal to back-to-back FIFA U-20 World Cup titles in 1989 and 1991, helping develop legendary players such as Luís Figo, Paulo Sousa and João Pinto.
Despite facing criticism at times over his coaching style, Queiroz’s influence on world football remains undeniable. Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane once criticised his personality, but the Portuguese coach’s achievements continue to place him among the most experienced managers in football history.
As he begins his journey with Ghana at the 2026 World Cup, Queiroz hopes to add another memorable chapter to his illustrious career and help the Black Stars achieve success on the biggest stage.
“I am prepared for this,” Queiroz said upon accepting the Ghana job. “I bring 40 years of experience to every decision that will be made.”
