The Ghana Football Association (GFA) claims it made every effort to retain Nora Hauptle as Black Queens head coach, but the Swiss tactician chose to leave for Zambia.
Reports suggest Hauptle was dissatisfied with the team’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) in Morocco, citing the lack of high-profile friendlies.
Despite expressing concerns, including a LinkedIn post, she received no assurances. Hauptle eventually signed a deal with Zambia after her contract with Ghana expired on December 31.
Her departure is seen as a setback for the GFA, given her success in revitalizing the team. Hauptle, who took over at a time when the Black Queens were struggling, rebuilt their confidence and guided them to qualify for the AWCON for the first time since 2018.
Speaking to Asempa FM, GFA Communications Director, Asante Twum, explained: “The GFA met with Nora Hauptle to discuss extending her contract. She demanded a 100% salary increase, but we offered 50%, as the FA has solely financed her salary since her appointment. We tried our best, but she declined our offer. As a professional, she had every right to walk away once her contract ended.”
The GFA is now tasked with appointing a new coach and ensuring effective preparations for AWCON, where Ghana face defending champions South Africa, Tanzania, and Mali in a challenging group.
