Asante Kotoko have strengthened their goalkeeping department with the signing of Moroccan goalkeeper Abdelwadie Mourad, adding another young option to head coach Eric Tinkler’s squad ahead of the new season.
The 22-year-old joins the Porcupine Warriors from Albanian club Basania FC and had already linked up with the team in training before the completion of his move on Ghana’s transfer deadline day on Sunday, August 23.
His arrival gives Kotoko another serious contender for the starting position between the posts. Mourad stands at 1.93 metres.
“Asante Kotoko SC is delighted to announce the signing of 22-year-old Moroccan goalkeeper Abdelwadie Mourad,” the club said in confirming the acquisition, which makes the youngster the first Moroccan player to represent the two-time African champions.
His professional journey began in Morocco with Chabab Mohammedia, where he progressed through the youth ranks before earning promotion to the senior team.
After his spell with Chabab Mohammedia, Mourad moved to Albania, joining Basania FC in January 2026.
Mourad Targets Starting Role at Kotoko
The arrival of Mourad adds further competition to a goalkeeping department already containing Aziz Dari, returning goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim and youth-team graduate Clever Obeng.
That competition could be particularly significant for Danlad, who has returned to Kotoko and will now face another challenger for the number-one shirt.
Mourad’s arrival means Tinkler has four recognised options in the position, creating greater depth while also raising the standard required to secure regular playing time.
The young Moroccan goalkeeper has reportedly earned a reputation as a shot stopper capable of dealing effectively with penalties, although that aspect of his game will ultimately have to be demonstrated consistently in competitive matches.
At 22, his profile also fits the club’s desire to develop players who can contribute beyond the immediate season.
The Moroccan has made no secret of his admiration for Yassine Bounou, the Al Hilal and Morocco goalkeeper, whom he identifies as his idol.
Bounou’s achievements with Morocco, Sevilla and at the highest level of international football provide an obvious reference point for a young goalkeeper attempting to establish himself outside his homeland.
Mourad said Kotoko’s reputation across Africa played a major role in his decision to move to Ghana.
“Who doesn’t know Asante Kotoko is the biggest club in Ghana? They have a lot of trophies, and I want to be part of this club, giving my best to let the team trust me. I wish to be the best goalkeeper in this club. This club is ambitious to do more, so that’s why I chose this club.”
Abdelwadie Mourad
His comments underline the scale of the opportunity he sees in joining one of Ghana’s most decorated clubs. Kotoko will expect that ambition to translate into performances as they pursue domestic success and seek to strengthen their position on the continental stage.
Menzo Backs Goalkeeping Competition
Kotoko’s technical leadership also sees Mourad’s arrival as more than an additional body in the squad.
Stanley Menzo, the club’s technical director, pointed to the goalkeeper’s mentality and ambition as important factors behind the decision to sign him. “His positive attitude, desire to win more trophies matches the club’s ambitions and his abilities in post is what made the club consider bringing him in,” Menzo said.
He added that Mourad’s positive assessment of Kotoko reflected the culture within the club, while expressing confidence in the strength of the goalkeeping unit.
“He spoke so positively about our club and it is a testament to the strong culture and unity we have. We are happy and we believe together with Dan, Aziz and Obeng, we have very strong options.”
Stanley P. Menzo
Mourad’s signing therefore presents Tinkler with both an opportunity and a selection headache. Danlad brings familiarity with the club, Dari and Obeng provide further alternatives, while the Moroccan arrives with a point to prove.
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