Coach Zachariassen fired by Kotoko

Kumasi Asante Kotoko have terminated the appointment of Norwegian Kjetil Zachariassen as their head coach just five months into his contract.

The coach, who was engaged on a three-year contract last July, was fired yesterday for non-performance as stipulated in his contract.

Prior to his appointment, the club tasked the ex-Ashgold coach to ensure he guard the team to, at least, the group stages of the Champions League competition and subsequently make it to the semi-final on his second attempt and then to the final during the last year of his contract.

Poor showing

The decision by management was as a result of Kotoko’s poor showing at the continental club competitions.

They were eliminated at the preliminary stage of the CAF Champions League and again failed to make it in the Confederation Cup when presented with the chance after their exit from the top tier club competition.

A letter confirming the sacking of the Norwegian signed by the club’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr George Amoako, said: “This letter serves as formal notice that your employment with Asante Kotoko (hereinafter known as “the club) has been terminated as of November 13.”

Final decision

The letter further said the decision to axe Zachariassen from his position as head coach of the club was final and could not be reviewed.

“This is a final decision and is not subject to review. If you will recall, Clause 7 of your employment contract set performance targets of the Champions League and the Confederation Cup competition which were set out particularly in sub clause 7.1.4.1 and 7.105 respectively.”

No compensation

The CEO further stated that his dismissal would be without any compensation; however, he would only be entitled to his outstanding salary for the month of October.

“You will be paid your outstanding salary of the month of October 2019,” the statement noted.

The Kotoko CEO referred to a clause in the contract with the Norwegian trainer which said: “Therefore pursuant to Clause 12, specifically sub clause 12.4 and 12.4.1 which states that: “The club may terminate the head coach’s employment without compensation and without prior notice where the head coach is unable to meet any of the targets stated in clause 7 herein.

“We are by this clause, terminating your appointment effective the aforementioned date,” the letter concluded.

Fall out

Trouble had been looming between the club and their coach when he refused to return with the team from Abidjan after their 0-2 loss to Cote d’Ivoire’s San Pedro in Abidjan, a result which ended the Porcupine Warriors’ campaign.

The coach reportedly refused to return with the team following verbal attacks from angry fans, disappointed by their team’s performance.

The Norwegian reportedly said he did not feel safe and was reluctant to return to Kumasi until his safety was assured.

He eventually came over the weekend and was invited to an emergency meeting last Tuesday.

Source: Graphic