Akonnor targets league glory in Kenya
Ghanaian tactician, Charles Kwablan Akonnor, has set an ambitious target of reclaiming domestic dominance and restoring Gor Mahia’s status as the kings of Kenyan football after being appointed head coach of the club on a two-year deal.
The 51-year-old former Black Stars captain and national team coach was officially unveiled in Nairobi last Friday, becoming the first Ghanaian to take charge of Kenya’s most decorated club.
His mission is clear: return Gor Mahia to the summit of Kenyan football and make them a force on the continental stage.
Akonnor will be supported by an all-Ghanaian backroom staff, with Bismark Kobi-Mensah joining as assistant coach and former Ghana goalkeeper George Owu taking over as goalkeepers’ trainer.
The trio replaces a technical team led by former Kenya international Zebediah “Zico” Otieno, which was dissolved after a disappointing campaign saw Gor Mahia finish second in the 2023/24 Kenya Premier League, falling short of the club’s high standards.
Akonnor's appointment follows an intense recruitment process which saw 173 coaches apply for the prestigious role, a testament to his reputation and coaching pedigree.
“I will work closely with all stakeholders to achieve our targets. Together, we shall ensure this great club wins titles — both locally and continentally,” Akonnor declared at his unveiling.
Building chemistry, chasing titles
Outlining his early priorities, Akonnor, who has not handled a team since he was relieved of his duties as black Stars coach in 2021, emphasised the importance of team chemistry and unity.
“First of all, it’s about building chemistry among the players — strengthening their bond. They need to have that understanding, that love, that passion to play for one another, no matter what,” he said.
Akonnor’s coaching résumé boasts experience with top Ghanaian clubs such as Hearts of Oak, Asante Kotoko, Dreams FC, and Ashantigold, in addition to leading Ghana’s national team from 2020 to 2021.
A former Bundesliga player with VfL Wolfsburg, he obtained his coaching licences in Germany and is known for his tactical discipline and belief in structured team development.
Focus on youth
While eager for immediate success, Akonnor insists he will build a strong foundation for sustained progress.
“Having a good youth system in place is very important for the club, and that is one key area I am keen on. Developing players through the ranks is quite vital, and I am a firm believer in working through the stages to achieve the best, not quick fixes for success,” he said.
For Gor Mahia, the appointment of Akonnor represents a fresh chapter and a bold statement of intent.
The club’s passionate fan base will be hoping the Ghanaian tactician can breathe new life into the side and end their continental drought, with the CAF Champions League a key target.
