A club statement by Asante Kotoko on Monday evening indicates that Abdul Fatawu Safiu’s contract has been terminated due to medical reasons.

According to the Kumasi-based royal club, the former Al-Sinaa SC striker failed a mandatory medical assessment test as required by the Ghana Football Association, following the announcement of his signing on the registration deadline day.

The returnee striker who joined Kotoko from Eleven Wonders in November 2018, ahead of the 2018–19 CAF Confederation Cup campaign has been duly informed about the health-related issues which could rule him out for a long period.

Below is a full statement by Asante Kotoko

Asante Kotoko can confirm that it has relieved forward, Abdul Fatawu Safiu due to medical reasons.

Asante Kotoko entered into an employment contract with the player in order to meet registration deadlines as announced by the Ghana Football Association, and had to ensure that the player undergoes the pre-competition medical assessment which is the basic and compulsory requirement by the GFA.

This medical assessment was duly done awaiting further tests. The further assessment by the club’s medical team revealed other health related issues which could rule him out for a long period. The club, after being informed about the situation, concluded that continuing an employment contract with the player would not be of full benefit to both parties – the club and the player. Details of the specific medical condition have been clearly communicated to the player.

It is imperative to note that the GFA has rejected his registration, so keeping him would not be in the best interest of the club and the player, hence the decision to end the relationship.

The club wishes Abdul Fatawu Safiu the very best for the future and wish to assure him that he forever remains one of us, and he is welcome to serve in any capacity in the future.

Signed….

Management.

Abdul Fatawu Safiu has signed a deal with Kotoko until January 2026.

The NC’s special competition’s best player and top scorer in 2019 returns after spells with Trelleborgs FF and FC Trollhättan in Sweden.

Safiu made his debut for the Kumasi-based royal club in the 2018-2019 season, scoring thirteen goals in sixteen games, including some amazing strikes in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The return of the forward is part of Coach Prosper Narteh’s goal of returning to the CAF Champions League.

The forward stated on the club’s website:

“I am very excited about this opportunity,” he stated.

“Everyone knows Kotoko is my favourite club, and as a kid, it was my dream to play for Kotoko and achieve that.”

Asante Kotoko have announced the acquisition of right-back Emmanuel Kotei on a three-year contract from Nsoatreman FC.

The 26-year-old brings Premier League experience from his time with Tamale City.

The offensive full-back demonstrated his skill and promise while playing for Nsoatreman and Tamale City, appearing in 47 games for both teams since the start of the 2022/23 season.

Kotei, who has been on the club’s scouting team’s radar, is our first addition of the second transfer window.

During his unveiling, the Kumasi native couldn’t contain his joy.

“Kotoko is every player’s dream, and mine has finally come true.” “Having the opportunity to wear our colours means everything to me as a local boy.” He informed the club’s journalists.