Stephen Frimpong Manso has officially taken the helm as the head coach of Ghana’s U17 national football team, the Black Starlets, as of January 1, 2025.
His appointment comes in the wake of Laryea Kingston’s resignation, following a disappointing performance in the WAFU Zone B U17 Cup of Nations where the team failed to qualify for the Africa U17 Cup of Nations.
Frimpong Manso appointed Head Coach of Black Starlets https://t.co/BsJAtncZBc
— 🇬🇠Ghana Football Association (@ghanafaofficial) January 9, 2025
Frimpong Manso’s coaching career is marked by a rich tapestry of experiences across various clubs and national teams.
He has previously managed notable Ghanaian clubs including Asante Kotoko, Karela United, and Bibiani Gold Stars, where he most recently served as head coach.
His coaching journey also includes stints at Stade d’Abidjan in Ivory Coast, B.A. United, Kessben FC (now Medeama SC), and Nkoranza Warriors.
Manso is particularly recognized for his ability to identify and nurture young talent. He has a history with the Black Starlets, having served as an assistant coach before leading the team from 2009 to 2010.
His earlier experience as assistant coach of the Black Meteors, Ghana’s U23 team from 2006 to 2008,
As a player, Frimpong Manso was a defender for the Black Stars from 1986 to 1995, earning 14 caps and had a successful club career with Asante Kotoko for eight years before moving to play in Kuwait with Al Shabab.
His extensive background as both a player and coach positions him uniquely to lead the Black Starlets in their quest for success on the continental stage.
The Black Starlets, Ghana’s U17 national team, have had a mixed run of games recently.
In the WAFU Zone B U17 Championship, they reached the semi-finals but suffered a 2-1 defeat to Burkina Faso on May 1, 2024, which prevented them from qualifying for the upcoming Africa U17 Cup of Nations.
Prior to that, they secured a 2-0 victory against Benin, advancing to the semi-finals after a strong performance
Looking ahead, the Black Starlets will aim to regroup and prepare for future tournaments, including potential qualification matches for the 2025
Stephen Frimpong Manso has officially taken the helm as the head coach of Ghana’s U17 national football team, the Black Starlets, as of January 1, 2025.
His appointment comes in the wake of Laryea Kingston’s resignation, following a disappointing performance in the WAFU Zone B U17 Cup of Nations where the team failed to qualify for the Africa U17 Cup of Nations.
