Asante Kotoko interim head coach, Abdul Karim Zito, has made it clear that his approach to turning the team’s fortunes around will go beyond tactics, placing strong emphasis on emotional support and connecting personally with his players.
Zito took charge earlier this week following the dismissal of Prosper Narteh Ogum, who was let go after a string of poor results that saw Kotoko fall from the top of the Ghana Premier League table. The team now sits in fourth place, six points behind the leaders, and has failed to win any of their last four league matches.
Addressing the club’s recent slump, Zito stressed that what the players need most right now is understanding and care, not just coaching instructions.
“This time it’s not coaching they need it, they need me to be their father. They need me to be their friends. And they need me as they are. I have to come low to their level to get what I want,” he said.
He also touched on the emotional strain that comes with playing for a high-profile club like Kotoko, especially during difficult periods.
“Playing matches and you don’t win. You can’t go out as an Asante Kotoko player. If somebody sees you standing somewhere, might even frame you waiting for your girlfriend, which creates a lot of problems,” Zito explained.
While acknowledging the importance of tactical adjustments, he also pointed out the broader aspects of football management.
“There’s the tactical side of coaching, but there’s also a political and psychological side. We’ll use both,” he added.
Zito’s first assignment as interim boss will be a crucial clash against Aduana FC on Sunday in match week 29 of the Ghana Premier League, as he looks to steady the ship and restore confidence within the squad.
