Maqonda Ndlovu
African Stars FC have named Ghanaian Prince George Koffie as their new head coach to lead them in this year’s Caf Champions League and 2023/24 season.
Koffie arrived in Namibia on Tuesday and was already at the Stars training session, which was conducted by title-winning coach Mervin Mbakera and assistant Andrew Tjahikika.
Speaking to New Era Sport at his unveiling, Koffie said he was happy to be taking on the challenge at Stars.
“I am very happy to be here; I have come to stay and work very hard at Stars so that we accomplish our vision. I have done a lot of research on both Namibian football and Stars. They are the biggest club in this country,” he said.
Koffie, who referred to himself as ‘The Mastermind’, said he knows it will not be an easy job, but he will give it his best.
“I am not here to change anything; they have already been working hard. I am here to compliment that. They have previously participated in the African Champions League and the Confederations Cup. We will build on that and move forward,” he said.
Stars executive member Salom Hei said they decided to bring in Koffie because of his experience.
“Mbakera is a young coach whom we are grooming for the future. He has done well. He needs an experienced head to guide him, especially on the continent. He will also learn and gain more experience,” Hei said.
When asked about the possibility of adding new players, Hei said they will add quality, experienced players with the aim of progressing to the group stages of this year’s African Champions League while aiming to retain their league title in Namibia.
These players will be unveiled soon with the input of the new coach.
“We are leaving no stone unturned this year. Our preparations have to be on point, based on the lessons we learned the last time we played in Africa,” Hei said.
Koffie is a well-travelled coach, who has worked in his home country, Ghana, Benin, Togo, Niger and India.