FC AshantiGold 04 head coach Karim Zito has urged Asante Kotoko manager Eric Tinkler to adapt to the realities of Ghanaian football instead of repeatedly complaining about the condition of playing pitches.
Tinkler recently expressed frustration over the poor state of pitches in Ghana following Kotoko’s 1-0 pre-season victory over Heart of Lions at the University of Ghana Stadium.
Speaking on Akoma FM, Zito said the South African coach should have familiarised himself with the local football environment before accepting the Kotoko job ahead of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season.
The veteran coach advised Tinkler to adjust to the conditions he has encountered and focus on working within them.
“Eric Tinkler needs to adjust himself to the situation here in Ghana. He should have taken the time to come down and assess the conditions before accepting the Asante Kotoko job,” Zito said.
Zito further pointed out that the same pitches Tinkler has criticised have not stopped him from achieving success with Kotoko.
“The same poor pitches he has been complaining about have given him a trophy, despite all the negativity surrounding the situation,” he added.
Despite disagreeing with Tinkler’s comments, Zito said he was happy to see the Kotoko manager celebrate after winning silverware.
The former Dreams FC coach said Tinkler’s celebration reminded him of his own emotions after winning trophies during his coaching career.
“I was happy for Tinkler yesterday. I remember when I won a cup, I also danced, so when I saw him celebrating, I saw a bit of myself in him. I was genuinely happy for him,” he said.
Tinkler recently guided Kotoko to victory over rivals Hearts of Oak in the Democracy Cup, securing his first trophy since taking charge of the Porcupine Warriors.
Kotoko will now turn their attention to the start of the Ghana Premier League season, with newcomers Debibi United awaiting them in their opening fixture.
