Former Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City mastermind Eric Tinkler is reportedly on the verge of making a monumental return to continental football.
According to prominent Ghanaian broadcaster Eben K, the 54-year-old South African tactician is the frontrunner to take over the hot seat at Asante Kotoko—one of the most decorated and heavily supported clubs on the African continent.
A Tactician Who Thrives Under Pressure
Tinkler has been unattached since parting ways with Betway Premiership side Sekhukhune United in April 2026, ending a highly respectable 13-month tenure. During his stay in Limpopo, the Bafana Bafana legend revitalized Babina Noko, launching them into a battle for a top-three finish and guiding them deep into domestic cup competitions.
For Asante Kotoko, appointing Tinkler represents a statement of intent. The Porcupine Warriors have endured a frustratingly inconsistent run in recent years, failing to match their rich historical legacy. Tinkler’s proven track record of handling high-pressure environments makes him the ideal candidate to wake the sleeping giant of Ghanaian football.
A Trophy-Laden Coaching Pedigree
Tinkler’s coaching resume speaks for itself. After cutting his teeth as Roger de Sa’s assistant at Wits, he stepped into the spotlight at Orlando Pirates. His era with the Buccaneers was marked by spectacular continental cup runs, guiding the Soweto giants to the finals of both the CAF Confederation Cup and the Nedbank Cup.
His domestic success is equally impressive:
- Cape Town City: Guided the newly formed club to the Telkom Knockout trophy in their debut 2016 season.
- SuperSport United: Secured the MTN8 title in 2017.
- Maritzburg United: Masterminded one of the PSL’s most famous relegation escapes.
- Cape Town City (Second Spell): Consistently delivered top-five finishes during a stable three-year run ending in late 2024.
With a massive rebuilding job ahead in Kumasi, Tinkler’s trademark tactical discipline and cup pedigree might be exactly what Asante Kotoko need to reclaim dominance in West Africa.
