Stephen Frimpong Manso named new Black Starlets coach

Stephen Frimpong Manso has officially been appointed as the new head coach of Ghana’s U17 national football team, the Black Starlets, effective January 1, 2025.

His appointment follows the resignation of Laryea Kingston after the team’s disappointing performance at the WAFU Zone B U17 Cup of Nations, where they failed to qualify for the Africa U17 Cup of Nations.

Frimpong Manso brings with him a wealth of experience from both his coaching career and his playing days. He has previously managed several prominent Ghanaian clubs, including Asante Kotoko, Karela United, and Bibiani Gold Stars, where he most recently served as head coach.

His coaching career has also taken him abroad, with stints at clubs such as Stade d’Abidjan in Ivory Coast, B.A. United, Kessben FC (now Medeama SC), and Nkoranza Warriors.

A key strength of Manso’s coaching philosophy is his ability to identify and nurture young talent. He has a deep connection with the Black Starlets, having previously served as an assistant coach from 2009 to 2010. Additionally, Manso was the assistant coach for the Black Meteors, Ghana’s U23 team, between 2006 and 2008.

As a player, Frimpong Manso was a reliable defender for the Black Stars from 1986 to 1995, earning 14 caps. He also had a successful club career with Asante Kotoko, before moving to Kuwait to play for Al Shabab.

His extensive experience both on and off the field equips him well to lead the Black Starlets in their pursuit of success on the continental stage.

The Black Starlets have had a mixed recent record, with their most recent performance at the WAFU Zone B U17 Championship ending in a 2-1 semi-final loss to Burkina Faso, which dashed their hopes of qualifying for the Africa U17 Cup of Nations.

Frimpong Manso appointed Head Coach of Black Starlets https://t.co/BsJAtncZBc

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However, they showed promise earlier in the competition with a 2-0 victory over Benin, which secured their place in the semi-finals.

Looking ahead, Manso and the Black Starlets will aim to regroup and prepare for upcoming tournaments, including qualification matches for the 2025 Africa U17 Cup of Nations and other key competitions.

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