Tinkler admits financial and disciplinary challenges at Asante Kotoko

Asante Kotoko coach Eric Tinkler has acknowledged that financial pressure, poor infrastructure and disciplinary problems are complicating his work at the Ghanaian club. His immediate objective is to build a team capable of competing for a return to the CAF Champions League.

Tinkler, speaking to Metro FM in South Africa, said the demands placed on him extend beyond improving results on the pitch. He accepted that Kotoko’s owners expect success, but stressed that the club’s wider difficulties must also be addressed.

The South African coach identified the club’s finances and facilities as major obstacles. He also said indiscipline has been a repeated issue within the squad, making it necessary to establish a more professional working environment.

Tinkler believes the disciplinary concerns are linked to several underlying factors, which the club understands. His approach will therefore involve changes to the standards and atmosphere around the team as he attempts to create better conditions for performance.

Despite those obstacles, Tinkler knows his position will ultimately be assessed through results and performances. His stated target is to guide Kotoko back into the CAF Champions League, a competition the club has previously featured in and one he considers central to his mandate.

Kotoko will begin their 2026-27 Ghana Premier League campaign away to newly promoted Debibi United. Before that league opener, they are scheduled to meet rivals Hearts of Oak in the 2026 Democracy Cup, giving Tinkler an opportunity to evaluate his squad and prepare for the new season.

The fixtures will mark the start of Tinkler’s attempt to restore Kotoko to the top level of Ghanaian football. His challenge will involve delivering results while managing the financial, infrastructural and disciplinary problems he has identified at the club.