Tinkler drops bombshell on Kotoko exit: ‘I was given a good offer in South Africa’
Eric Tinkler has broken his silence on his shock resignation from Asante Kotoko, revealing that a return to South Africa was behind his decision to walk away from the Ghanaian giants.
On Monday, Tinkler met with the Kotoko squad and technical team to deliver his farewell message, making it clear that his exit was not triggered by the club’s latest defeat.
“You guys would have obviously been told this morning about me resigning in the statement that came out from the club. That is entirely true. I have handed in my resignation.
“But very, very important for me telling you: it had nothing to do with performance,” said Tinkler.
“It had nothing to do with the result yesterday. This was a decision I had already made last week, and obviously the chairman, Stanley and myself, we’ve managed to keep that very quiet. The request was that I stay until this game, which is exactly what happened.
“So it had no reflection on the fact that we lost this match and that’s the reason I’m handing my resignation.
“This is the world of football. I was given a good offer to go back to a club in South Africa, and that is the main reason why I made the decision.”
Tinkler acknowledged the sudden nature of his departure, but insisted the door to Kotoko may not be closed forever.
“It is the nature of football — one day you are here, the next day you can be up there,” he added.
“Yes, our target was to get there this season, but I still firmly believe we can. We have enough quality here, and the coaches, Diogo and Hamza, can achieve that.”
The departing coach also had an emotional message for the players, thanking them for their commitment during his time at the club.
“I want to thank you for all the hard work, dedication, respect and discipline that you guys showed me during the time that I was here.
“You never know, I might be back. The job is not finished,” he said.
Tinkler’s comments add a new twist to his sudden departure, with the coach confirming that his next move could see him return to South Africa.
He is expected to join Durban City upon his return to South Africa.
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