Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to adopt a long-term approach to rebuilding the Black Stars, saying the national team needs a structured project rather than short-term solutions.

The comments come after Ghana’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Round of 32, with Jhon Arias scoring the only goal of the match in the 14th minute.

With the future of Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz uncertain after his short-term appointment in April, Kingston has expressed his willingness to take charge of the national team if approached by the GFA.

Speaking on Joy Prime and Joy Sports, the former Black Stars midfielder said Ghana must move away from the expectation of immediate success and instead give a coach sufficient time to build a competitive team.

“We need a long-term project to build a team. At least five years for a coach to build a team before a tournament,” Kingston said.

He said Ghana should focus on developing a strong squad ahead of major competitions rather than rushing to achieve immediate results.

“We shouldn’t be thinking about winning the AFCON because we do not have a team,” he added.

Kingston also stressed that the country must avoid assembling a team shortly before tournaments and instead ensure that a settled squad is developed well in advance.

“The coach should build a team for us, and we should make sure we have a team before there is a competition. We shouldn’t wait until the last minute, and then we call players to come in.”

The former Black Stars winger, who is currently head coach of Uganda’s U-17 national team, said he is satisfied with his current role but would welcome the opportunity to serve his country.

“I have a job now, and I am happy with my job for now. I’m a Ghanaian, and I would love to hear that call [from the FA to come and coach the team]. There is no better joy than helping your country,” he said.

Kingston previously coached Ghana’s U-17 side, the Black Starlets, and later guided Uganda’s U-17 team to qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup after defeating Ghana in the qualifying play-offs.

His comments come as the GFA considers the next direction for the Black Stars following another disappointing international campaign, with the team now set to focus on preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.