Asante Kotoko Coach Abdul Karim Zito Targets Heart of Lions Midfielder Etse Dogli for Next Season

Asante Kotoko head coach Abdul Karim Zito has publicly declared his interest in securing the services of Heart of Lions’ standout midfielder, Etse Dogli. The announcement follows a compelling performance by the young player during a recent Ghana Premier League fixture where Heart of Lions secured a decisive 3-1 victory over the Porcupine Warriors. Zito was so impressed by the midfielder’s technical abilities and influence on the pitch that he has already signaled his intent to bring the player to Kumasi for the upcoming campaign, acknowledging that Dogli's talent is exactly what his side needs to strengthen their ranks. Etse Dogli’s rise has been one of the highlights of the current season. Since joining Heart of Lions from Banana Inn in August 2025, he has established himself as a mainstay in the team's midfield, starting 18 league matches. His performance against Kotoko served as a microcosm of his season—dictating play and showcasing a level of maturity that caught the eye of the opposition's technical bench. Coach Zito praised Dogli’s remarkable talent, noting that his contributions were pivotal in the Lions' recent triumph and that his profile fits the long-term vision of the Kotoko squad. The interest from the Kotoko camp has been met with a positive yet pragmatic response from Heart of Lions coach Bashir Hayford. Hayford acknowledged Dogli’s consistent form and growing reputation within the league, admitting that the midfielder has become a target for several clubs. Beyond domestic club interest, Dogli’s performances have reportedly garnered attention from the technical handlers of the local Black Stars, suggesting a bright future for the player on both the club and international stages. As Asante Kotoko begins planning for the next season, the pursuit of Etse Dogli highlights Coach Zito’s strategy to bolster the squad with proven local talent. While a formal transfer agreement remains to be finalized in the coming months, the public nature of Zito’s admiration sets the stage for a potentially high-profile move in the next transfer window. For Heart of Lions, the challenge will be retaining one of their most influential assets or ensuring a fair valuation for a player whose stock continues to rise in the Ghanaian top flight.