Ashanti Regional Circles Chairman of Asante Kotoko, Alex Manu, insists supporters should not be blamed as the sole reason behind the resignation of former head coach Abdul Karim Zito, describing fan bases as “pressure groups” whose expectations are rooted in the club’s winning tradition.
Kotoko are currently enduring a mixed 2025/26 Ghana Premier League campaign, sitting 5th on the table with 35 points from 21 matches, eight points behind leaders Medeama SC, with the highly anticipated Super Clash against Hearts of Oak scheduled for February 15, 2026.
Speaking exclusively to Citi Sports, Manu acknowledged the demanding nature of Kotoko’s fan base but urged a more balanced assessment of the team’s struggles.
Supporters are a pressure group. And Asante Kotoko supporters, we know nothing apart from victory. Which Karim Zito can attest to that because he played the club and played very well and won trophies.
Abdul Karim Zito in training. Photo Courtesy: Shaban Mohammed
When Kotoko won our last championship in 1983, Zito was an active member of that team that won the last Champions League. So, he knows how important supporters are. But, apart from us, to me, we should have had a lot of patience with him.”
While acknowledging the weight of expectation that comes with managing the Porcupine Warriors, Manu stressed that responsibility for performances should not rest solely on the coach’s shoulders, pointing to the role of the playing squad.
He’s not working alone. He’s working with players. He’s working with players.’ We should also go to the players and meet them one after the other, to ask them if they had any issues. Because normally when players are having issues with each other, or they’re having issues with the club, this is how the performance always goes.
Kotoko in action. Photo Courtesy: Ghana Premier League X
So, if you don’t take time and you sack your coach, the team also remains. But, for this one, let’s see. We hope for the best.”
Kotoko’s immediate focus now turns to stabilisation and redemption following Zito’s resignation on February 9, 2026, with club leadership and supporters alike hoping the upcoming derby provides a platform to reignite their season.
