Coach Ouatarra’s job safe at Hearts of Oak — Nyaho

ACCRA Hearts of Oak will not bow to pressure from supporters demanding the dismissal of their Burkinabe head coach, Aboubakar Ouattara, following a slow start to the new league season.

After securing just one point from his first two matches, some fans expressed concerns that Ouattara’s performance could lead to a repeat of last season’s disappointing campaign, calling for his immediate removal. 

However, Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a board member of the club, has stated firmly that the club will not entertain such demands.

Speaking to the Graphic Sports, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe defended the coach, insisting that Ouattara is on the right path toward rebuilding the team and restoring the club’s former glory.

“When we lost the first two matches, they said the coach must be sacked, but we are not going to sack him. We are working strategically and know exactly what we are looking for,” he explained.

He urged supporters to exercise patience and allow Ouattara time to create a team capable of challenging for trophies. “If you really love Hearts of Oak, take your time and watch. The team is starting to improve, which is a sign that the coach’s hard work is paying off.”

Drawing parallels from the past, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe recalled a similar challenge during his tenure as chairman of the club in 1985, when he successfully revamped the squad by bringing in new players.

“During my time, we brought in new boys and succeeded. Perhaps this is the same process we are witnessing now,” he said.

The veteran football administrator outlined a vision for the club’s future, referencing the legacy of past Hearts of Oak teams.

“We are going to have the Fearsome Five passing the baton to the Twinkle Twinkle Little Stars, who handed it over to the 64 Battalions. Now, it’s time for the Ouattara Boys to take over.”

He dismissed claims that the coach is the problem, instead blaming some of the previous players for the team’s underperformance.

“The players who were removed from the team were the issue, not the coach. We have given the coach complete freedom to recruit the players he wants, and his choices are beginning to show results,” he asserted.

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe emphasized that Ouattara’s job is secure, and the club is committed to giving him the time and support necessary to succeed.

“The coach knows what he’s doing, and no one will interfere. He is not the problem—the problem was the old players, and now we are seeing progress with the new ones."