The Porcupine Warriors will face Hearts of Oak in the Super Clash without their head coach after he tendered in his resignation due to impending dismissal
Asante Kotoko Sporting Club have officially parted ways with head coach Abdul Karim Zito Kabutey, following the club’s shock elimination from the FA Cup at the hands of Aduana Stars on Sunday.
Kotoko’s FA Cup journey came to an abrupt end at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, where the defending champions were held to a goalless draw before losing 4-2 on penalties. The painful exit sparked intense reactions from supporters and heightened pressure on the technical team, ultimately leading to Zito’s resignation.
In the aftermath of the defeat, Zito attempted to calm tensions by urging patience from fans, insisting that he was in the process of building a competitive and winning squad. He also referenced similar upsets in global football, pointing to how Manchester United were once eliminated by lower-tier Grimsby Town in the English FA Cup, arguing that surprises are part of the competition.
However, those remarks reportedly failed to sit well with Kotoko’s top hierarchy, who were unhappy with both the result and the direction of post-match communication. Within hours of the defeat, discussions were held behind closed doors, culminating in the coach’s decision to step down.
In an official statement released by the club, Kotoko confirmed the development:
“Abdul Karim Zito Kabutey has resigned from his role as the head coach of Asante Kotoko Sporting Club with immediate effect.”
The statement further revealed that the club’s management had accepted his resignation and expressed gratitude for his contribution during his tenure.
“Management has accepted the resignation, expressed its appreciation to the coach for his services and wished him the best for the future,” the statement added.
Kotoko also assured supporters that plans are already underway to chart a new technical course for the club.
“The new technical direction of the club will be communicated in due course.”
Zito’s departure marks another significant chapter in Kotoko’s ongoing search for stability and success, as the Porcupine Warriors aim to regroup and refocus their ambitions both domestically and on the continental stage. Fans will now be keenly awaiting management’s next move as pressure mounts for a swift turnaround.
Kotoko will host fierce rivals Hearts of Oak in the Super Clash on Sunday in Kumasi and the supporters will hope the players will bounce back in a grand style to save their blushes.
