Black Satellites head coach Maxwell Konadu has urged Asante Kotoko boss Eric Tinkler to adjust to the realities of playing on poor pitches in Ghana, following concerns raised by the South African over the state of playing surfaces ahead of the new season.
Tinkler recently expressed frustration with the condition of pitches after Kotoko’s 1-0 pre-season victory against Heart of Lions at the University of Ghana Stadium.
Responding to the comments, Konadu acknowledged that the former Cape Town City coach would face difficulties but stressed that adapting to local conditions would be essential for success in the Ghana Premier League.
The former Kotoko head coach said Tinkler should understand the realities of Ghanaian football while also recognising the need for improvements to playing surfaces across the country.
“I know he will be having some challenges here and there when it comes to pitches, but he should understand that this is how we also do our things here. Even though we can make things better, he should adapt and get used to it,” Konadu made these remarks before Kotoko defeated rivals Hearts of Oak 4-1 on penalties to win the 2026 Democracy Cup at the Baba Yara Stadium on Friday, 28 August.
He warned that the situation could become even more challenging at some venues during the season.
“If he starts complaining a lot, he might go to a venue and see worse things,” he added.
The debate over pitch quality comes just days before the start of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season, which is scheduled to kick off on 5 September.
Ahead of the new campaign, the Ghana Football Association’s Club Licensing Committee has approved 14 of the 18 venues submitted by top-flight clubs, with efforts continuing to ensure stadiums meet the required standards.
