Prosper Ogum's dismissal necessary - Sarfo Duku insists

Asante Kotoko Communications Manager, Samuel Sarfo Duku has clarified that the dismissal of Coach Prosper Ogum is purely performance-based.

In an interview on Kumasi-based Akoma 87.9 FM, Duku emphasized that the decision to part ways with Ogum was not taken lightly, but was necessary due to the team’s unimpressive run in the ongoing Ghana Premier League.

Asante Kotoko announced the exit of Ogum on Monday afternoon, following a decline in the team’s performance, which saw them drop from the 1st position to the 4th position on the log.

While some may argue that the team is just six points behind league leaders Gold Stars, Duku emphasized that the decision goes beyond mere numbers. “We were once leading the table, even tied with second place at a point, but the trend has been worrying,” he noted. “We started poorly, improved briefly, and now we’re declining again. What do you expect?”

Duku acknowledged Ogum’s technical prowess, stating, “There’s no debate about his competence—he remains one of the best in the country.” However, in football, results matter. When things don’t go well over time, changes at the top become inevitable.

“We gave him full control over player recruitment, and management fulfilled its responsibilities. If the team’s performance is faltering, the technical team bears that responsibility,” Duku added.

Duku opined that though Ogum gave his all, his best wasn’t enough to meet expectations of the record winners, making it necessary to chart a new course for the club.

Reports suggest that Asante Kotoko are done with talks, and will soon announce former player Karim Zito as Ogum’s replacement.

The exit of Coach Prosper Ogum marks a new chapter for Asante Kotoko, and the club will be looking to bounce back under new leadership. With the league still in its business and FA Cup semifinals to play, the Porcupine Warriors will need to regroup and refocus if they are to achieve their title ambitions.