Eric Tinkler has revealed that a lucrative offer from South Africa was behind his decision to resign as head coach of Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko, fuelling speculation about a possible return to the Betway Premiership.
The South African coach’s brief spell in Ghana came to an unexpected end following Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Aduana Stars in a First Capital Plus Premier League encounter.
However, Tinkler has made it clear that the defeat was not the reason for his resignation, revealing that he had already made the decision before the match.
His comments have now raised questions about his next destination, with Durban City and Siwelele among the clubs being linked with the experienced coach.
Tinkler leaves Asante Kotoko after five matches
Tinkler took charge of Asante Kotoko in July, but his time with the Porcupine Warriors lasted only five competitive matches.
During his short tenure, the 56-year-old recorded one victory, three draws and one defeat.
The defeat came against Aduana Stars, with Asante Kotoko losing 2-0 on Sunday.
It proved to be Tinkler’s final match in charge before the club announced his resignation.
Despite the disappointing result, Tinkler insists that the outcome had nothing to do with his decision to leave.
‘It had nothing to do with the result’
Tinkler explained that he had already made up his mind to resign before the defeat to Aduana Stars.
“I have handed in my resignation, but it has nothing to do with performance,” Tinkler said, as reported by Modern Ghana.
“It had nothing to do with the result [against Aduana Stars]. This was a decision I had already made last week. This is the world of football.”
The comments suggest that the decision was driven by circumstances away from the pitch rather than Asante Kotoko’s recent results.
South African offer behind Tinkler’s decision
The biggest revelation from Tinkler’s comments was that he had received an offer to return to South Africa.
The former Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City coach confirmed that the opportunity to return home was the main reason behind his decision to leave Ghana.
“I was given a good offer to go back to a club in South Africa, and that is the main reason why I’ve made the decision that I have,” he added.
Tinkler did not reveal the identity of the South African club, leaving his next destination unclear.
That has immediately fuelled speculation around several clubs currently operating in the South African top flight.
Durban City and Siwelele speculation grows
One of the clubs reportedly linked with Tinkler is Durban City, who recently parted ways with Ben Youssef following a difficult start to the season.
A return to the KwaZulu-Natal club would give Tinkler another opportunity to work in the Betway Premiership, where he has considerable experience.
However, Siwelele has also emerged as a potential destination amid the growing uncertainty surrounding Tinkler’s next move.
At this stage, there has been no official confirmation that Tinkler has agreed to join either club.
His revelation that he has received a “good offer” from a South African club has nevertheless made his next appointment one of the developing stories to watch.
A return to the PSL?
Tinkler is no stranger to South African football.
The former Bafana Bafana midfielder has coached several clubs in the domestic game and has built a reputation as an experienced coach in the Premier Soccer League.
His decision to leave Asante Kotoko after only five matches therefore raises the possibility of a swift return to familiar surroundings.
For now, the identity of the club behind the offer remains undisclosed.
Whether that club is Durban City, Siwelele or another South African side remains to be seen.
Tinkler’s next move remains unclear
Tinkler’s resignation has transformed what appeared to be a relatively straightforward coaching stint in Ghana into a major talking point in South African football.
The coach has confirmed that an offer from home influenced his decision, but he has stopped short of naming his next employer.
With clubs constantly assessing their coaching situations during the season, the coming days could provide clarity on where Tinkler’s future lies.
Is Eric Tinkler heading to Durban City, Siwelele or another South African club? Only time will tell.
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