Kotoko and Tinkler Separate After Brief 2026/27 Spell

By Angel No Lie | KPD Online | Sports | 28 September 2026

Asante Kotoko have ended their association with South African coach Eric Tinkler, with the club confirming that he has been released from his contract with immediate effect.

The announcement came on Monday, 28 September 2026, one day after Kotoko suffered a 2–0 home defeat to Aduana FC at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in a Ghana Premier League Matchday 4 fixture.

Tinkler’s Kotoko chapter ends after four league matches

Tinkler leaves after four league matches

Tinkler was appointed Kotoko’s head coach in July 2026 as the club prepared for the 2026/27 campaign. The club’s announcement at the time highlighted his CAF A Licence, more than three decades of elite football experience and previous work with clubs including Orlando Pirates, SuperSport United, Cape Town City and Maritzburg United.

His tenure at Kotoko lasted only four league matches. According to 3News, his record consisted of one victory, two draws and one defeat.

His first league victory came against Heart of Lions on 13 September, when Kotoko won 2–1.

Asante Kotoko players at Baba Yara Sports Stadium

Club cites personal reasons

Reports on the club’s statement say Tinkler requested to be released from his duties for personal reasons. The Board of Directors said discussions were held in an attempt to prevent the separation, but both sides ultimately agreed to respect his decision.

The departure therefore follows a relatively short coaching period rather than an announcement that he had been dismissed specifically because of Sunday’s defeat.

The Porcupine Warriors face another coaching transition

What happens next?

Kotoko are now faced with a coaching transition early in the new Ghana Premier League season.

The club has indicated that its technical structure will continue working toward the team’s sporting objectives while plans for the next phase of the coaching setup are developed.

Kotoko’s next league fixture is against Karela United, with the match scheduled for Thursday at Baba Yara Stadium. Tinkler will not be on the touchline for that game.

A short chapter comes to an end

Tinkler arrived in Kumasi with substantial experience in South African and continental football. At the time of his appointment, Kotoko described him as a coach with extensive top-flight experience and a distinguished playing career, while Tinkler said he was looking forward to building a team capable of competing domestically and internationally.

Less than three months later, that project has ended.

The immediate focus for Asante Kotoko will now be maintaining continuity within the team while the club determines its next coaching arrangement.