- Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has shared insights into how he secured the role at the club.
- Akonnor was officially unveiled as Gor Mahia’s new head coach on Friday, August 1, 2025.
- The Ghanaian tactician is a former international player, having represented the Ghana national team and German side VfL Wolfsburg during his playing career.
Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has opened up about how he secured the prestigious coaching role at Kenya’s most successful football club.
Having endured a trophyless 2024/25 season, K’Ogalo overhauled their entire technical staff ahead of the new campaign.
On Friday, August 1, 2025, they announced the appointment of the Ghanaian international, alongside his countryman Kobi-Mensah Bismark as assistant and Ben Owu as the goalkeeper coach.
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Speaking in an exclusive interview with SportPesa about his journey to Gor Mahia, the former head coach of Ghana’s Black Stars revealed that after his national team tenure, he chose to step away from the spotlight, focusing his efforts on grassroots football.
“After leaving the Black Stars, I exited the coaching scene for a while. During that period, I aimed to give back to the community and immersed myself in youth football at the grassroots level.”
How Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor landed in Kenya
He stated that he worked at that level for three years, until 2025 when he learned of the vacancy at Gor Mahia and decided to pursue the opportunity.
“I had been out for about three years until Gor Mahia came into the picture. Because there was an opening, I applied for it and was successful.”
The former Asante Kotoko coach admitted he was initially hesitant to apply, worrying that his time away from the high-profile game might count against him. However, a friend based in Nairobi encouraged him to go for it.
A friend of mine who lives here in Kenya contacted me and recommended I consider the position. I wasn’t entirely sure about it because I had been away from the top level for some time.
Although coaching is my profession, it wasn’t in the limelight, so I had my doubts. But ultimately, I decided to sign on and take the challenge,” he stated.
ALSO READ: Gor Mahia appoint Ghanaian Charles Akonnor as new head coach
Akonnor’s tenure with the 21-time top-flight champions did not begin ideally, as the team suffered a stunning 1-0 defeat to Bidco United on Sunday at the Moi Sports Center Kasarani in the SportPesa League 25/26 season opener.
Now settled and having learned from that initial setback, Akonnor will be aiming for a stronger performance this weekend when they face Sofapaka, hoping to secure a victory and build momentum in their quest to reclaim the league title.