Asante Kotoko head coach Eric Tinkler says he hopes to coach either Ghana or South Africa one day, describing managing a national team at the FIFA World Cup as the ultimate ambition of his coaching career.
The 55-year-old South African was appointed head coach of the Porcupine Warriors ahead of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season and has already enjoyed early success, guiding the club to the 2026 Democracy Cup title after a 4-1 penalty shootout victory over rivals Hearts of Oak at the Baba Yara Stadium.
Speaking to Akoma FM, Tinkler said representing a country on football’s biggest stage remains his long-term ambition.
“I think the pinnacle for every coach is to coach a national team, you know. I said this last night at a press conference, that is where I would like to see myself,” he said.
The former Cape Town City coach said he would welcome the opportunity to lead either Bafana Bafana or Ghana’s Black Stars if the chance arose.
“Be it the South African national team, be it the Ghanaian national team, because you want to be on the biggest stage in the world, which is the World Cup,” he said.
Tinkler believes coaching at the World Cup represents the highest achievement a manager can attain.
“As a coach, that’s the pinnacle of coaching: you’ve coached a team in the World Cup, so hopefully I get that opportunity one day,” he added.
When asked whether he would accept an offer from either national team if approached, Tinkler gave an unequivocal response.
“Yes,” he replied.
For now, however, his focus remains on Asante Kotoko, who begin their 2026/27 Ghana Premier League campaign with an away fixture against newly promoted Debibi United as they seek a strong start under their new coach.
