The Liberia national team coach case is stuck in limbo. Nearly two months have passed since interim coach Thomas Kojo completed his short-term assignment, and the position of head coach remains unfilled. The Liberia Football Association (LFA), which oversees football operations, has been sidelined while the final decision rests with the Liberian government.

“We have written the government on the issue but yet to get response from them,” LFA President Mustapha Raji told reporters during a recent press briefing in Monrovia. But the later the announcement, the more difficult it becomes.

Why the Coaching Role Matters Now

Other reports cite that not getting a coach means there are no intentions for a Liberia national team. What does that mean? Their next scheduled match is in June 2023, according to upcoming match reports for the FIFA window. The longer they are not playing and not integrated into other matches whenever they can, it is going to make it harder to integrate them into future matches anyway.

Kojo’s stint was never meant to be permanent. He was brought in to bridge the gap after Romanian coach Mario Marinica’s departure. Now, with no replacement in place, the clock is ticking.

Meet the Contenders: Kojo vs. Butler

Two coaching paths have reportedly been proposed to the government:

• Extend Thomas Kojo’s contract: A move that would reward continuity and give him a full chance to lead.
• Appoint James Peter Butler: An English coach with experience in African football and a more tactical approach.

Ultimately, every alternative has its advantages, but without a definitive decision, the team remains in a state of uncertainty. The LFA has done its homework, provided the options, and made its appeal. Now, it’s time to wait.

Stopping a Train That Should Be Going

The figurative lack of power is damaging. The literal lack of power is disastrous. Everything is on pause as the FIFA window approaches in June. The LFA filed a budget for matches, yet it awaits funding approval. In the following months, Liberia has a chance to play with Iran in November. The match hosts will cover all accommodations, and the only thing that Liberia would have to finance would be its players’ daily allowances.

Even with this rare opportunity on the table, no movement has been made.

“We have plans for the June international window to have friendly matches, but we yet to get feedback,” Raji said.

Liberia National Team Coach: A Pattern of Instability

The coaching carousel isn’t new in Liberian football. Over the past decade, the national team has seen a revolving door of leadership, with coaches often appointed on short-term contracts or in interim roles. From German coach Antoine Hey to local figures like Kaetu Smith and James Debbah, there’s been little long-term planning.

This inconsistency has made it nearly impossible to establish a tactical identity or build a strong developmental pipeline. Players are frequently adjusting to new systems and expectations, which undermines cohesion. Without stability at the top, progress remains slow.

Player Perspectives: Frustration Beneath the Surface

Though few speak publicly, current and former players have voiced frustration in private conversations. The recurring theme is uncertainty. Players want clarity about who is leading them, what style they’ll be playing, and what their future looks like.

One national team midfielder, speaking anonymously, said, “It feels like we’re always starting over. Every camp is a reset. You never know who’s in charge or what we’re working towards.”

For many players, national team call-ups represent rare windows to showcase talent and secure moves abroad. A stable coaching setup can amplify those chances. Without it, opportunities dry up.

Broader Impact on Liberia’s Football Development

The effects of this ongoing void go well beyond the senior team. The youth ranks, community development efforts, and interactions with the National Football League are negatively impacted by the absence of top leadership for the national team. The national coach is not just someone sitting on the bench on game day; he could be someone who finds great young talent, trains community coaches, and sparks training ideologies.

With no continuity and no set presence, the bigger picture misses many stops along the way. Potential teenagers might remain undiscovered. International clubs and federations do not connect without a liaison.

Missed Opportunities and Development Issues

Liberia hasn’t been relevant in African soccer for more than two decades. Yet, much potential exists with this youthful population. Prospects are increasing, but without careful oversight and consistent training and guidance, many may not succeed.

Football transcends the game in Liberia. It’s an appeal for a country shaped by conflict and poverty. A lack of leadership sends the wrong message, not just to fans and players, but to potential sponsors and international partners.

What Liberia’s Football Needs Next

To move forward, three immediate steps must happen:

• The government must respond to the LFA’s coaching proposals.
• A permanent coach must be announced—either Kojo or Butler.
• Budget approvals must be issued to support upcoming matches.

Further delay means missing the June friendlies and setting back development for the World Cup. The longer it takes, the harder it gets.

Final Whistle: The Stakes Are High

Every day without a coach weakens Liberia’s position in African football. The Lone Star needs direction, and that starts with leadership. Fans deserve answers. Players deserve a plan. And the country deserves a national team that can compete.

It’s time for action. The decision can’t wait.