Kenya Premier League champions Gor Mahia FC have announced the signing of Charles Akonnor as their new head coach, ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
The 52-year-old signed a two-year deal to become the coach of the 21-time Kenya Premier League champions and will be assisted by a Ghanaian technical brain, Bismark Kobby-Mensah, with Ben Owu named the goalkeeper’s trainer.
The club announced via its social media page on Friday: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Charles Akonnor from Ghana as our new Head Coach. The former Black Stars manager brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned tactician. Welcome to Mahia, Coach Akonnor,” the club said.
The record FKF Premier League champions believe Akonnor’s wealth of experience and international exposure could help propel the club to the next level.
The former Wolfsburg player is one of the few Ghanaian coaches to have managed the nation’s two top clubs, Asante Kotoko, Hearts of Oak and AshantiGold. Gor Mahia will be Akonnor’s first coaching stint outside Ghana.
After successful playing careers with Bundesliga sides Fortuna Koln and Wolfsburg, Akonnor honed his coaching career at the Right To Dream Academy before leaving for the then Ghana Premier League side Eleven Wise. He also had a coaching stint with Dreams FC.
Gor Mahia are rebuilding after a turbulent season and are desirous to make a huge impact in CAF inter-club competitions. Akonnor will connect with former Asante Kotoko midfielder Enoch Morrison, who joined the club last season.
The club also announced the appointment of Brian Odongo as their new team soctor. Brian is a certified sports medicine specialist with extensive experience working with elite athletes across multiple disciplines – both locally and internationally.