Former AFC Leopards coach follows Johnathan McKinstry with new coaching role in West Africa

IMAGE/ Goal Kenya

Former AFC Leopards coach follows Johnathan McKinstry with new coaching role in West Africa

Festus Chuma 09:22 - 15.06.2024

A former AFC Leopards coach has been appointed as the head of the technical bench for FC Fassell in Liberia.

Former AFC Leopards coach Ivan Minnaert has secured a new position in West Africa this time as the head of the technical bench for FC Fassell in Liberia.

This announcement comes just weeks after former Gor Mahia head coach Johnathan McKinstry was appointed as the head coach for Gambia national team.

The Belgian tactician who is known for his extensive experience across several African nations including Kenya, Guinea, Rwanda, and Mali, embarks on a fresh journey in West African football.

Minnaert, who previously managed Ingwe until September 2016, has agreed to a three-year deal with his new club.

During his unveiling, Minnaert outlined his primary goals with FC Fassell.

"The main objective is to develop players and if the players are developed then the next step will come," he asserted.

Minnaert emphasized his commitment to enhancing local coaching standards.

"As part of my objective is to train Liberian coaches. Of course, if I bring assistant coaches it will be difficult to develop coaches.

The only foreign coach I will bring is a physical coach. He will help us to prepare and train the Liberian physical coaches. It's not only to win the championship but to develop in the long term," he added.

Minnaert's coaching career in Africa began in 2002 and includes multiple stints at various clubs.

After his time with AFC Leopards, he moved on to manage the Guinean powerhouse AS Kaloum and Rwanda’s Rayon Sports among others.

His tenure at these clubs was marked by near successes, including a tight race for the league title with AS Kaloum, which ultimately saw Horoya AC clinch the championship early due to a superior points difference.

The coach’s last role before joining FC Fassell was with Libya's Al-Ahli Tripoli which capped a diverse and challenging coaching journey across the continent.

The Belgian gaffer's appointment follows a growing trend of experienced coaches taking up roles in West Africa a region that has seen significant football development in recent years.

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