Former South Africa international Eric Tinkler has left Asante Kotoko after only four Ghana Premier League matches, with the club accepting his request to terminate his contract for personal reasons. His departure came shortly after Kotoko’s 2–0 home defeat to Aduana FC, as reported by GBC Ghana. The South African coach’s brief league record was one win, two draws and one defeat.
Although the loss to Aduana was his first in the league, it became his final match in charge. Kotoko currently sit ninth in the table. The club said it held discussions with Tinkler in an effort to keep him, but ultimately respected his decision. The technical team will now continue under director of football Stanley Purl Menzo, with Karela United next due at Baba Yara Stadium on October 1.
According to 3 News, Tinkler’s departure has now opened the door for an immediate return to South African football, with Durban City reportedly emerging as his next destination. Durban City are currently searching for a new head coach after parting company with Tunisian tactician Khalil Ben Youssef on Saturday. Ben Youssef spent just three months in charge and oversaw seven Betway Premiership matches, recording one win, four draws and two defeats.
He also guided the club through their successful CAF Confederation Cup preliminary-round tie against Rukinzo FC before his dismissal. Tinkler is already a familiar name in discussions around the Durban City job. The former Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United coach was strongly linked with the position before the club eventually appointed Ben Youssef in June.
Reports at the time suggested that Tinkler was among the leading candidates being considered for the role, making a potential appointment several months later a return to an opportunity that previously did not materialise.