I learned not to be too emotional – Otto Addo

Black Stars coach Otto Addo has revealed that mastering his emotions has been a crucial lesson learned during his first stint with the Ghanaian national team.

Addo, formerly a talent coach at Borussia Dortmund, was tasked with leading Ghana in a critical 2022 World Cup qualification playoff against Nigeria. Successfully guiding the team to World Cup qualification, he continued to lead them during the tournament but stepped down after the Black Stars failed to advance past the group stage.

Despite initial backlash from disappointed fans, Addo has returned as the permanent head coach, displaying a more composed and resilient demeanor. His improved performance has limited the criticism he once faced.Reflecting on his emotional growth, Addo credits his family and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for their support and advice. “I don’t know if that [first stint] was different but actually my mother talked a lot to me that I should manage my emotions even if I didn’t like certain things, questions. To be honest, some questions are a little bit, I don’t know,” he shared with 3Sports.

Black Stars coach Otto Addo reveals how his mother has helped him to be a calmer figure when facing the media.#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/MUzwaJB52K

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) June 13, 2024

Otto Addo: My players have the freedom to be creative with the ball
“But my family helps me to handle this and stay calm. I’ve also been talking to the FA president and the Communications Director who also give me good advice. I think maybe I learned not to be too emotional even if there are questions I don’t like or if they are personal. I generally don’t listen to all the comments or insults. I just take it away from me and it keeps me calm,” he added.

A place in the 2026 World Cup is on the cards for the Black Stars after picking 9 points in four games.@_owurakuampofo looks at the remaining hurdles for Otto Addo’s side#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/FVbdwfYO8m

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) June 13, 2024

Despite initial setbacks, including a 2-1 loss to Nigeria and a 2-2 draw with Uganda in friendly matches, Ghana’s crucial wins over Mali and the Central African Republic have revived hopes of making their fifth World Cup appearance.Otto Addo is now focused on leading the Black Stars to success in the upcoming challenges and aims to make history by guiding Ghana to another global showpiece.