Asante Kotoko interim head coach, Abdul Karim Zito, has emphasised that his immediate focus will not only be on tactical corrections but also on providing emotional support and understanding to his players.
Zito steps into the role following the dismissal of Prosper Narteh Ogum earlier this week.
Kotoko have slipped to fourth place on the Ghana Premier League table and are currently six points behind the leaders.
The Porcupine Warriors have failed to win any of their last four league games, prompting leadership changes and growing concern among supporters.
Addressing the team’s recent struggles, Zito highlighted the importance of empathy alongside football strategy.
“This time it’s not coaching they need it, they need me to be their father. They need me to be their friends. And they need me as they are. I have to come low to their level to get what I want,” he said.
He also spoke about the psychological toll poor results can have on players, particularly at a high-profile club like Kotoko.
“Playing matches and you don’t win. You can’t go out as an Asante Kotoko player. If somebody sees you standing somewhere, might even frame you waiting for your girlfriend which creates a lot of problems.
“There’s the tactical side of coaching, but there’s also a political and psychological side. We’ll use both.”
Zito’s immediate task will be against Aduana FC on Sunday in match week 29 of the Ghana Premier League.
