Mauritania coach Amir Abdou has committed to a two-year contract extension despite being linked to the coaching role for Black Stars.
Abdou’s decision follows his success in guiding Mauritania to the knockout rounds of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a remarkable achievement for the team. He made history by leading his team to its first-ever victory in the tournament and progressing to the round of 16 for the first time.
While his contract was set to expire in March, Abdou’s impressive performance at the 2023 AFCON garnered international attention. Abdou accomplishments at the 2021 AFCON with Comoros, including a historic 3-2 victory over Ghana, further heightened his profile.
He was believed to be approached by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) who is seeking a new coach following Chris Hughton’s departure.
Despite the reports suggesting that Ghana expressed keen interest in Abdou’s services, the GFA General Secretary, Prosper Harrison Addo, clarified that there has been no official approach or offer made to the coach. Contrary to circulating information about a monthly salary offer of $45,000, Addo refuted these claims, stating, “It’s never true that Ghana has approached Amir Abdou for the Black Stars job,” as quoted by Akoma FM.
Meanwhile, Mark Addo, the vice president of the GFA and chairman of the five-member committee tasked with selecting a new coach, assured Ghanaians that the committee is diligently working to choose the best candidate for the Black Stars.
He confirmed the receipt of over 500 applicants, with the shortlisting process underway.
As the coaching saga unfolds, attention remains focused on the upcoming announcement of the new Black Stars coach.
