Asante Kotoko appoint former South Africa captain Eric Tinkler as head coach
Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko have appointed experienced South African coach Eric Tinkler as their new head coach ahead of the 2026-27 season.
The 55-year-old takes charge of the Porcupine Warriors with immediate effect as the club seeks to strengthen its technical team and challenge for both domestic and continental honours.
Tinkler arrives in Kumasi with more than three decades of experience in professional football, having built an impressive career as both a player and a coach.
His coaching résumé includes spells with some of South Africa’s biggest clubs, including Orlando Pirates, SuperSport United, Cape Town City, Maritzburg United and Bidvest Wits.
Among his notable achievements, Tinkler guided Orlando Pirates to the CAF Champions League final and later led SuperSport United to the CAF Confederation Cup final. He has also won several domestic trophies, including the MTN8 and Telkom Knockout competitions.
Before moving into coaching, Tinkler enjoyed a distinguished playing career. The former South Africa captain earned 48 international caps, represented Bafana Bafana at the 1998 FIFA World Cup and was part of the squad that won the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations. At club level, he played in England, Italy and Portugal for Barnsley, Cagliari and Vitória de Setúbal.
Kotoko said the appointment underlines the club’s long-term ambition to build a strong football structure capable of competing consistently at the highest level in Ghana and across Africa.
Tinkler will work alongside Director of Football Stanley Menzo Purl as the club continues to strengthen its football operations ahead of the new campaign.
Board Chairman James Osei Brown described the South African as a coach with a proven record of success.
“Eric brings a wealth of experience, discipline and a winning mentality to our technical team. His track record of developing players and delivering results at the highest level in African football makes him the right man to lead our team at this important time.”
Speaking after his appointment, Tinkler said he was proud to join one of Africa’s most successful clubs.
“I am honoured and excited to join one of Africa’s most storied football institutions. Asante Kotoko’s rich history, passion for success and ambition are recognised across the continent. I look forward to working with the players, staff and management to build a team capable of winning both domestically and in Africa.”
Tinkler’s appointment marks a new chapter for the Ghana Premier League side as they prepare for the 2026-27 season with renewed ambitions of reclaiming major honours and making a strong impact in continental competitions.
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