Tinkler dumps Ghana giants in shock move

A shock development has emerged from Ghana, with South African coach Eric Tinkler parting ways with Asante Kotoko just months after taking charge of the club.

Tinkler was appointed as the head coach of the Ghanaian giants in July ahead of the new campaign, succeeding after Kotoko finished eighth in the Ghana Premier League last season.

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The former Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City coach arrived with the task of helping the two-time CAF Champions League winners compete for domestic and continental honours.

Tinkler's short-lived Ghana adventure

However, his stint in Ghana has now come to an abrupt end.

Tinkler's departure comes just days into the new campaign and shortly after suffering his first defeat as Kotoko coach.

The Porcupine Warriors have played four games so far, recording one win, two draws and one defeat. Their latest result came on Sunday when they suffered a 2-0 loss to Aduana FC.

The defeat saw Kotoko drop to ninth on the Ghana Premier League table and marked Tinkler’s first loss since taking charge.

Kotoko confirm shock departure

The club has now confirmed that the 54-year-old tactician has left his position with immediate effect.

"The Board of Directors of Asante Kotoko Sporting Club has agreed to the request of its Head Coach, Mr. Eric Tinkler, to be released from his contract with the Club effective immediately for personal reasons," the club stated.

"Earlier on, both parties engaged in meaningful negotiations to avert the decision at this time of the relationship between the parties but finally had to respect Coach Tinkler's decision.

Kotoko outlines next steps

"The Club maintains that professionalism, unwavering commitment and total focus are crucial to achieve the key performance indices it has set to meet its present objectives.

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"The Club is grateful to Coach Tinkler for his professionalism and commitment to the success of the club during his rather short stint with the Porcupine Warriors and wishes him well in his next endeavours.

"The Club remains focused on its sporting objectives as the Technical Team is poised to proceed with the Club's strategies to achieve its objectives under the leadership of the Director of Football, Mr. Stanley Purl Menzo."

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African Football News Asante Kotoko Eric Tinkler Ghana Premier League