Monrovia-The Liberia Football Association has confirmed that the search for a new coach for the senior national team, the Lone Stars has begun.
By: Christopher C. Walker 0777898224/0886723075b [email protected]
The decision to open application for hot seat came as the result of the termination of Ansumana Keita contract as head of Liberia following poor performance in his seven games in charge of the Liberia.
“The Liberia Football Association (LFA) announces the termination of the services of men’s senior national team head coach Ansu Keita.
“In a December 29 letter to Keita, LFA secretary-general Kollie A. Dorko (Atty.) said a majority decision was reached to immediately end the contract for sporting just cause without compensation at an executive committee meeting on 18 December,”. A release from the football house stated.
The LFA thanked Keita for his contribution to football development and wished him the best in future endeavours.
Keita was unveiled at the Antoinette Tubman Stadium ATS in Monrovia on January 25, 2023.
The Canadian who took over from English man Peter Butler also sever as head coach of Liberia’s under-15 and under-17 men’s national teams before taking over the senior national team position.
He also served as interim coach in 2022 during the CHAN Nations Cup qualifications at the SKD when Senegal defeated Liberia 3-0 but managed a 2-1 away victory.
Keita was given a mandate to qualify Liberia for the 2023 Nations Cup in Ivory Coast and the 2025 Nations Cup and to build a strong local based national team.
During his time in charge of Lone Star squad Keita played seven games and lost six and drew just one game some that may have prompted the decision from the LFA.
The Football house on Wednesday January 3, 2024 announced the vacancy for the position a new head coach of Liberia.
A communication on the FA Facebook page said “The Liberia Football Association announces a vacancy for head coach of the men’s senior national team,”
According to the Liberia Football Association the deadline for all those interested in the hot seat is January 15 2024.
As per the requirements to secure the job LFA said the duration of selected coach will be a two-year contract subject to extension.
Requirements and Responsibilities
responsibilities include serving as the Head Coach for the senior men’s national team and overseeing the developmental U23 and CHAN teams. Working with a technical team, the coach will lead the programs and preparations for the team’s qualification to the 2025 AFCON and the 2026 World Cup.
• Extensive international football knowledge and experience at both national and international levels.
• Strong understanding of Liberia’s national team playing philosophy and principles to create a competitive and successful team.
• Excellent educational skills and a clear coaching methodology.
• Understanding of sports science and a well-defined playing style aligned with national team goals and strengths for international player preparation.
• Effective man-management skills to communicate with players, staff, and stakeholders.
• Motivational and mentoring capabilities with a history of fostering a cohesive and inclusive national team culture.
• Willingness to collaborate with domestic leagues and clubs for smooth player transitions.
• Strategic approach to identifying, nurturing, and promoting local players without compromising competitiveness.
• Effective player rotation and squad management, especially in competitions with a busy schedule.
• Strong communication, respect, and authority.
• Detailed-oriented approach adaptable to different playing conditions, changing football trends, and embracing innovations.
• Physical stamina.
• Ability to enhance mental strength and handle challenging situations or crises.
• Composure under pressure and effective decision-making in critical moments.
• Balancing development of young talents with a winning mentality for a competitive team. • Experience coaching an African national team is an added advantage.
• Having the ability to actively facilitate and encourage young talents’ exposure to international experiences, ensuring they gain valuable insights and development opportunities beyond national borders is a plus
Minimum CAF A or UEFA A License and UEFA Pro License.
• Local coaches with B license and a minimum of 6 years coaching experience at the licensed level.
•Practical knowledge of African football.
At least 10 years’ international football experience at adolescent and senior levels.
• Proficiency in the English language (verbal and written).
• Educational background (Bachelor or Masters in Sports) is an added advantage.
• Effective communication skills with media and fans for a positive public image.
• Good language skills and cultural awareness for effective communication with international players.
• Digital tools skills.
• Match analysis skills.
• Presentation skills.
• Planning and reporting skills.
Qualified candidates should submit their applications, Curriculum Vitae, and certified copies of
certificates and identity cards on or before January 15, 2024 to the General Secretary.
All requested documents must be sent to [email protected]