Asante Kotoko midfielder Andrews Ntim Manu is expected to leave the club at the end of the 2026/27 season, with his contract set to expire and no indication yet that a renewal is on the horizon.
The defensive midfielder has endured a frustrating spell in Kumasi after spending nearly two seasons on the sidelines with a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that has stalled his progress.
Manu initially delayed undergoing surgery after opting for traditional treatment following the injury, a decision that reportedly prolonged his rehabilitation and kept him out of competitive action for an extended period.
Recognising the midfielder's commitment and potential, Kotoko later facilitated surgery towards the end of last season, around the time his previous contract expired, before rewarding him with a one-year extension to aid his recovery.
The club had hoped the additional year would provide Manu with enough time to complete his rehabilitation and fight his way back into the first team.
However, his recovery has reportedly not progressed as anticipated, raising doubts over whether he will be able to return to full fitness before the end of the current campaign.
Unless there is a significant improvement in his rehabilitation over the coming months, Kotoko are unlikely to offer the midfielder a new contract when his current deal expires.
Manu joined the Porcupine Warriors as one of the country's promising midfielders and was expected to strengthen the club's options in the heart of midfield with his ball-winning ability, composure and work rate. Unfortunately, his long-term injury has prevented him from making the desired impact.
With Kotoko expected to reshape their squad ahead of next season, the club will have to make difficult decisions regarding several players, and Manu's future appears increasingly uncertain.
Should he depart, both player and club will hope he can fully recover from his injury and revive his career elsewhere after one of the most challenging periods of his professional journey.
