Asante Kotoko head coach Eric Tinkler says he is embracing the expectations that come with managing one of Ghana’s biggest clubs as he prepares for his first Ghana Premier League campaign.
The South African tactician believes his experience coaching in some of South Africa’s biggest derby matches has prepared him for the demands and pressure of leading the Porcupine Warriors.
Speaking to the club’s media, the former Cape Town City FC and Sekhukhune United coach expressed confidence in handling the spotlight.
“I thrive under pressure, to be honest,” Tinkler said.
“I have been involved in big derbies like Orlando Pirates against Kaizer Chiefs. I was involved in those games for a number of years, with big crowds and big expectations from both the Chiefs and Pirates fans, so it’s going to be no different.”
The 56-year-old stressed that one of his priorities is to help his players perform without fear, allowing them to express themselves on the pitch.
“I need to take that experience and knowledge and pass it on to the players and take the pressure off them. You can’t go into a game with a fear of losing.”
Tinkler also underlined his desire to see Kotoko play attractive, fearless football while giving supporters a performance to be proud of.
“I want to put on a good performance, a good spectacle for the fans in the stadium and the millions who are going to listen to it on radio and watch it on TV. The players will have to go and play with freedom and without fear.”
The former Bafana Bafana midfielder will take charge of his first Ghana Premier League match when Asante Kotoko open their 2026/27 campaign away to newly promoted Debibi United, as he looks to make a strong start to life in Kumasi.
