Malian champions Stade Malien will announce the appointment of former African footballer of the Year, Abdul Karim Razak, as the new head coach ahead of the 2025-26 season.
The veteran gaffer, who has managed clubs such as Asante Kotoko and Dragons de I’Oueme, alongside Stade Malien, is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Malian giants.
Golden Boys’ stints with Stade Malien
Razak will enjoy his fourth spell at the club as the head coach, having led the Malian side between 2000 to 2002 for the first time.
The 1978 African Footballer of the Year made a return in 2004 and enjoyed another two years in Mali after coaching Asante Kotoko in the 2003-04 season.
Golden Boy’s third stint was between 2011 and 2012.
How Razak is revered by Stade Malien
The 69-year-old is considered a lucky charm by the club after winning four Malian Premiere Division titles, two Malian Cups and three Super Coupe National du Mali with the club.
Abdul Razak knows and understands Malian football after winning on four occasions Malian Premiere Division’s Coach of the Year. Having played in Ghana, Egypt, the USA, Ivory Coast and the UAE, Razak has gathered much experience in his football journey and fits the role perfectly.
Stade Malien won double by winning the 2024-25 Premiere Division and the Malien Cup. The league title was the first since the 2020-21 season, with Djoliba and Real Bamako sharing the last three league titles, with Razak expected to also defend the title
Stade Malien’s objectives for the 2025-26 season
The club dreams of winning a slot in the Money Zone of the 2025-26 CAF Champions League and will appoint Abdul Razak, with paperwork set to be signed by next week.
