Gor Mahia appoint Charles Akonnor as new head coach

Gor Mahia FC have officially announced the appointment of Charles Akonnor as their new head coach on a two-year contract.

The 51-year-old Ghanaian tactician takes over from the departed Siniša Mihajlović, bringing a wealth of experience as both a player and manager at the highest level.

Akonnor, a former Ghana Black Stars captain and head coach, earned 51 international caps and scored 13 goals during his playing career.

His club career included a successful five-year stint in the Bundesliga with VfL Wolfsburg, where he made 121 appearances between 1998 and 2003.

As a coach, he has managed some of Ghana’s top clubs, including Hearts of Oak, Ashanti Gold, and Asante Kotoko, before taking charge of the Ghana national team.

His deep understanding of African football and tactical acumen makes him a strong fit for Gor Mahia as they prepare for the new season.

The Ghanian, who is just reporting to duty at a time the team is about to start preparing for the new season, says he has a plan for the team.

“I have set my goals for the club and l will be working with all stakeholders to have the success needed. We need to set up a solid team that can achieve the best and we will work together towards a common goal to achieve what we want as a club.”

The new head coach is keen on youth development and say: "Having good youth team in place is very important for the club and that is one area l am keen on. Developing players through the ranks is quite vital and l am a believer in working through the stages to achieve the best not quick fixes fir success."

Akonnor will be assisted by fellow Ghanaian Kobi-Mensah Bismark, an experienced coach who has previously worked with Bechem United, Accra Shooting Stars Academy, Great Olympics, and Karela United.

Kobi who also pens a two-year deal to fill up the departed Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno’s gap at the club is elated to be handed the role that comes with huge expectations and says that with the right structures, he will work together with the technical staff to achieve the best.

"I thank everyone at the club and l am happy to be offered the chance to be part of the team. I came with coach Charles because he is a believer in what he does. Discipline at all levels is key and with the right structures, we hope all will go well and we will achieve the best."

Joining the technical bench also is Joshua Kofi Boafo, a video analyst tasked with performance review, tactical breakdowns, and providing data-driven insights to enhance team strategy.

Additionally, Owu Ben, a former Ghana U-17 and U-20 international goalkeeper, takes over as goalkeeping coach.

Owu brings experience from his playing days at FC Galați Steel (Romania), Asante Kotoko, and Ashanti Gold, as well as coaching experience with Medeama SC.

The club has also strengthened its medical team with the appointment of team doctor Brian Odongo, a certified sports medicine specialist with extensive experience working with elite athletes across multiple disciplines - both locally and internationally.

The newly assembled technical team is set to begin preparations immediately as Gor Mahia aims to have a good campaign in Kenyan Premier League next season and an impact in continental competitions.