THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is closing in on appointing a new head coach for the Golden Jaguars national team, with an announcement expected within the next three weeks. On Thursday, GFF President, Wayne Forde, confirmed that a shortlist of around eight candidates is currently being considered for the coveted role.

While Forde remained tight-lipped regarding the identities of those in contention, he expressed his confidence that a new coach would be in place to steer the team through the remainder of their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Guyana faces Nicaragua away from home on June 6 in a crucial qualifier.
The head coach position became vacant following the GFF’s decision to part ways with Jamaal Shabazz in October 2024. This marked the fourth time his tenure with the national side had come to an end. Wayne Dover has since stepped in to manage the team in the interim.

The GFF had initially aimed to announce a permanent replacement by the end of March 2025. While that deadline has passed, President Forde’s latest update suggests that the selection process is now in its final stages.

The GFF advertised the criteria for the vacant role, which included a UEFA Pro Licence (or equivalent), a minimum of five years of professional coaching experience, including managing at least two senior national teams, a proven track record in international competitions, and a deep understanding of modern football tactics and player development.

Under Shabazz’s guidance, Guyana was promoted to League A of the CONCACAF Nations League after an unblemished record in League B. However, their time in League A was short-lived, resulting in relegation.

Since Shabazz’s departure, Dover has guided the Golden Jaguars through CONCACAF Gold Cup preliminary qualification. However, Guatemala ultimately dashed their hopes of reaching the Gold Cup.