Kenyan League side Gor Mahia appoint CK Akonnor as new head coach

Former Black Stars player and coach, Charles Kwablan Akonnor, has been appointed as the new head coach of Kenyan giants Gor Mahia FC.

The 52-year-old tactician has signed a two-year deal with the record FKF Premier League champions, marking his first coaching stint outside Ghana.

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Akonnor will be supported by Bismark Kobby-Mensah as assistant coach, while Ben Owu takes charge as the goalkeeper’s trainer.

A statement on the club’s official website read:
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Charles Akonnor from Ghana as our new Head Coach. The former Black Stars manager brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned tactician. Welcome to Mahia, Coach Akonnor.”

The club believes Akonnor’s extensive experience and international exposure can help elevate Gor Mahia to greater heights, particularly in their pursuit of domestic dominance and continental success.

Akonnor brings with him a strong coaching résumé, having previously managed Ghana Premier League giants Asante Kotoko, Hearts of Oak, AshantiGold, Dreams FC, and Eleven Wise. He also began his coaching journey at the prestigious Right to Dream Academy.

As head coach of Asante Kotoko, Akonnor guided the Porcupine Warriors to victory in the 2019 Normalization Committee Special Competition (Tier 1), which served as a stand-in for the Ghana Premier League that season.

Before turning to coaching, Akonnor enjoyed a successful playing career in Europe with German sides Fortuna Köln and VfL Wolfsburg, where he also served as captain.

Gor Mahia finished second in the 2024/25 FKF Premier League season, narrowly losing the title to Police FC.

The club is hopeful that Akonnor’s leadership will be pivotal in reclaiming their domestic crown and making a stronger push in continental competitions.

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