Why Akonnor is not interested in ditching Gor Mahia for Black Stars job

Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has downplayed growing speculation linking him with a return to the Ghana national football team.

The tactician insisted that his immediate priority remains firmly with the 21-time Kenyan champions.

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Akonnor’s name has resurfaced in Ghanaian football circles following the departure of Otto Addo, who was relieved of his duties by the Ghana Football Association after a string of poor results.

Ghana suffered a 2-1 defeat to Germany in Stuttgart on March 30, just days after a heavy 5-1 loss to Austria in Vienna, results that intensified pressure on the federation to make changes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a statement, the GFA confirmed the decision, thanking Addo for his service and indicating that a new technical direction for the Black Stars would be communicated in due course.

With the position now vacant, Akonnor has emerged as one of several local coaches under consideration.

Reports in Ghanaian media have listed him alongside: Kwasi Appiah, Laryea Kingston, and Desmond Ofei as potential candidates.

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The federation is also said to be exploring experienced foreign options, including Winfried Schäfer, who currently serves as the Black Stars’ technical director.

Hervé Renard, a two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner and Tom Saintfiet, the current Mali national team boss are also said to be among those being considered for the pressure job.

Moroccan tactician Walid Regragui, who led his country to a historic semi-final finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup has also been mentioned.

Despite the mounting speculation, Akonnor remains unmoved.

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Speaking after Gor Mahia’s goalless draw against Kariobangi Sharks at Kasarani Stadium on Saturday, 4, the former Black Stars coach made it clear that he is not entertaining thoughts of leaving his current role.

“I am with Gor Mahia, I am very happy and doing well, we are fighting for the title, and that is where my focus is. Nothing comes before that,” he said.

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Akonnor, who previously handled Ghana between January 2020 and September 2021, acknowledged the links but dismissed them as natural speculation given his history with the national team.

“I was once the coach of the national team so if there is a link, it is not anything bad or negative. I am Ghanaian, I love my country, and I love the national team. I will support them in the World Cup, and that would be it. But for now, my focus is with Gor Mahia,” he added.

Up next, Gor Mahia will face Tusker in a midweek clash slated for Tuesday, 14 April.