Gor Mahia coach McKinstry linked with move to Gambia National team

Reports have emerged linking Gor Mahia Head Coach Johnathan McKinstry with a potential move to the Gambia National Team.

According to sources in the Gambian media, including Alkamba Times’ head of sports Buba Jallow, McKinstry’s contract is reportedly being amended to facilitate his appointment with the Gambia Football Federation.

Gor Mahia to change

Buba Jallow announced on his X account that McKinstry, initially slated to end his contract with Gor Mahia in September, is now expected to sign a new deal ending in June, paving the way for his appointment as the Gambia national team coach.

“Johnathan McKinstry, whose contract was supposed to end with Gor Mahia in September, is currently being amended to end in June, which will allow him to be named as the Gambia national team coach.

“The K’Ogalo are currently leading the Kenya Premier League with nine points unrivalled. The Irish will lead Gor against Shabana, followed by an away match against KCB. He is expected to arrive in Banjul next week,” Buba announced on his X account.

McKinstry, renowned for his managerial roles with various international teams, is touted as the top candidate for the vacant head coach position with the Gambia national team.

Abdou Jammeh, a former Gambia international player, is also under consideration for an assistant coach role.

The Gambian Standard reported that negotiations for McKinstry and Jammeh’s appointments were nearing completion, with McKinstry set to sign a two-year deal, potentially extendable based on performance criteria.

With an impressive track record in international football management, having previously helmed teams like the Rwanda national team, Sierra Leone national team, and Uganda national team, McKinstry brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.

McKinstry at Gor Mahia

McKinstry took the reins as Head Coach of Gor Mahia FC, Kenya’s most successful club side, with the announcement of an initial two-year contract in July 2022.

McKinstry faced significant challenges upon his arrival, inheriting a team amidst turmoil, serving a FIFA transfer ban, operating with a lean squad, and struggling to conduct effective training sessions due to off-field issues.

Despite these hurdles, McKinstry’s first season proved triumphant as he guided Gor Mahia to clinch the Kenyan Premier League title.

Adding to their success, McKinstry led Gor Mahia to victory in the 2023-24 FKF Charity Shield, securing silverware once again with a win over Kakamega Homeboyz.

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