New Gor Mahia Coach Akonnor Embraces Trophy Hunt Without Fear
Charles Kwabla “CK” Akonnor, the newly appointed head coach of Kenyan giants Gor Mahia FC, is embracing the challenge of commanding one of the country's most honored clubs. Despite the heightened expectations that come with taking charge at K’Ogalo, the Ghanaian tactician insists he isn’t intimidated by the pressure that accompanies the job.
“I understand the circumstances in which I do have to work…the difficulties that come with this job. I am a man who has worked in this game for a while. I wouldn’t be able to coach Kotoko, Hearts of Oak…even to the level of the national team…which comes with a lot of pressure…if I was not able to deal with all those things,” the Ghanaian legend said.
Akonnor arrives at the helm with an impressive resume—years as a professional player in Germany with clubs like Fortuna Köln and VfL Wolfsburg, where he served as captain, followed by coaching roles at several top Ghanaian sides and national teams. His blend of experience is meant to strengthen the team’s structure and ambition.
Undeterred by the expectations, Akonnor says his focus is on instilling a winning mentality, even as he works to build team chemistry and restore Gor Mahia to its traditional dominance in Kenyan football. He signals a long-term rebuilding process rather than immediate results, calling on supporters to be patient as the club reshapes under his leadership.
“We want to go into the championships (Premier League) and win it and then get into the continental scene. The rest will follow…it is not a gradual process. I am not here to be the miracle man or magic man, but to work with understanding. They are the only team to win the Confederations Cup before and they can do it again, but this depends on an understanding of where we are now and where we want to go,” he said.
Akonnor undertook his first training session with the team on Tuesday even as several players remain on national duty with Harambee Stars at the African Nations Championships (CHAN).
