Asante Kotoko Begin Major Overhaul as Eight Players Exit Ahead of 2025/26 Season

Asante Kotoko, reigning MTN FA Cup champions, have parted ways with eight players following the conclusion of the 2024/25 football season.

Leading the list of departures is club captain Justice Blay, whose contract ran out at season’s end. Once a key player and crowd favorite, Blay’s exit is thought to be influenced by disciplinary issues, which ultimately led to the club opting not to renew his deal. Even with his strong leadership qualities and midfield dominance, Kotoko appears set on pursuing a new path.

Former WAFA star Michael Kyei Dwamena also bids farewell after three years of diligent service. Known for his impressive work rate and consistent displays, Dwamena is now a free agent and is already drawing interest from other Ghanaian clubs.

Nigerian forward Fernando Wisdom Bassey, who joined Kotoko from Sporting Lagos in August 2024, also failed to impress during his brief stint. Despite making 16 league appearances, Bassey scored just once before being let go.

Additionally, Daniel Adrian Adjetey, Kwasi Asante, Samuel Tenadu, and Sampson Eduku — all mid-season signings — have been shown the door after failing to establish themselves in the squad.

According to club insiders, these player exits are part of a wider restructuring as Kotoko gears up to mount a stronger challenge in the 2025/26 campaign. Kotoko, who will fly Ghana’s flag in the CAF Confederation Cup next season, are committed to assembling a squad capable of competing at the highest level.

On the retention front, Kotoko have opened talks to renew contracts for key players including Frederick Asare, Andrews Ntim Manu, and Baba Yahaya, with agreements expected to be finalized before the pre-season kicks off.

Meanwhile, the club has begun pursuing new signings to bolster its squad, with Hubert Gyau, Zakaria Fuseini, and Francis Acquah among the targets.

Having capped off their campaign by clinching a record 10th FA Cup title after defeating Golden Kick SC, Kotoko aim to leverage this success as they usher in a new chapter of competitive ambition.