Kumasi Asante Kotoko Sporting Club has opened a formal investigation into an alleged attempted bribery involving members of its playing squad ahead of their final Ghana Premier League match of the 2025 26 season against Swedru All Blacks.
The club confirmed the development in an official statement issued on May 26, 2026, stating that management and the board had engaged both players and technical staff in a meeting held on May 25 to review the team’s performance during the just-ended campaign and address emerging disciplinary concerns.
According to the statement, the discussions also covered reports of an alleged attempt by an unidentified individual to influence certain players before the decisive fixture at the Baba Yara Stadium. The matter has since been escalated internally, with a full investigation launched to establish the facts.
Kotoko praised defender Patrick Asiedu for what it described as professionalism and integrity after he reportedly brought the issue to the attention of club authorities through the appropriate channels.
“Asante Kotoko treats issues of this nature with the utmost seriousness,” the club stated, adding that any individual found culpable after investigations would face appropriate disciplinary action.
The allegations come at the end of a challenging season for the Porcupine Warriors, who ended the 2025 26 Ghana Premier League campaign on a disappointing note. The team lost 2 1 to Swedru All Blacks in their final match, a result that reflected broader inconsistencies throughout the season.
Kotoko’s league performance was marked by fluctuating form, with the club failing to mount a sustained challenge for the title despite periods of strong defensive organisation. The team’s inability to convert chances into goals was widely viewed as one of the major issues affecting their campaign.
Management has since assured supporters that the club remains committed to upholding professionalism, discipline and integrity both on and off the pitch. The board further emphasised that steps are being taken to restore stability and competitiveness within the squad ahead of the next season.
The club is expected to provide further updates once investigations into the alleged bribery attempt are concluded, with stakeholders and supporters closely watching developments given the seriousness of the allegations.
Kotoko, one of Ghana’s most decorated football clubs, are now expected to begin planning for restructuring ahead of the 2026 27 season as pressure mounts for improved performances and stronger governance within the technical setup.