Asante Kotoko Sporting Club have officially appointed experienced South African tactician Eric Tinkler as the club’s new head coach with immediate effect.
The Porcupine Warriors announced the appointment on Friday afternoon, describing Tinkler as a coach with a proven pedigree, vast top-flight experience and an outstanding record in player development as the club begins a new chapter ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Tinkler arrives in Kumasi with more than 30 years of elite football experience and holds a CAF A Licence. During his coaching career, he has managed some of South Africa’s biggest clubs, including Orlando Pirates, SuperSport United, Cape Town City FC, Maritzburg United and Bidvest Wits. He guided Orlando Pirates to a CAF Champions League runners-up finish and SuperSport United to the CAF Confederation Cup final, while also winning several domestic trophies, including the MTN 8.
Before moving into coaching, Tinkler enjoyed an accomplished playing career. The former midfielder captained South Africa and earned 48 international caps, representing Bafana Bafana at the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations. He was also part of the South African squad that won the 1996 AFCON and played professionally in England, Italy and Portugal.
Kotoko said the experienced coach will work closely with newly appointed Director of Football Stanley Menzo as the club seeks to build a strong football structure capable of delivering sustained success both domestically and on the continental stage.
Board Chairman James Osei Brown expressed confidence in the appointment, saying Tinkler possesses the experience, discipline and winning mentality needed to lead the club back to the summit of African football.
Speaking after signing his contract, Tinkler said he was honoured to join one of Africa’s most decorated 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 for development are well known across the continent. I look forward to working with the players, staff and management to build a team that can compete and win both at home and on the continental stage. I feel proud to be associated with this great club at this historical moment.”
The appointment signals Kotoko’s ambition to return to competing for major honours, with the club placing its trust in the experienced South African to lead the Porcupine Warriors into a new era.