Former Asante Kotoko captain Samba O’Neil has announced his departure from the club, publishing a heartfelt farewell message to the “Asante Kotoko Family” as he prepares to begin a new chapter elsewhere in his career.
The Congolese-born defender, whose full name is Ndongani Samba Gilbani O’Neil, described leading the Porcupine Warriors as the defining honour of his career, while expressing a mixture of sadness and gratitude at his exit.
In his statement, O’Neil singled out Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, for special thanks, describing the king’s presence as a source of strength throughout his time leading the club into battle on the pitch.
He extended similar gratitude to Kotoko’s Board, management and technical team for entrusting him with the captain’s armband, calling it a statement of faith he never took lightly.
A captain is only as strong as the men standing behind him, and you made leading this team an absolute privilege.” Samba O’Neil.
O’Neil also paid tribute to his teammates, describing the dressing room bond built through victories and defeats alike, and voiced confidence that the current squad remains equipped to push the club to greater heights in his absence.
He reserved some of his warmest words for Kotoko’s supporters, calling them the heartbeat of the club and thanking them for the atmosphere they created at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium throughout his tenure.
A Two-Year Chapter at Kotoko
O’Neil joined Asante Kotoko in July 2024 on a two-year contract and was named club captain ahead of the 2025/26 season, succeeding Richmond Lamptey.
Since his arrival, the centre-back established himself as one of the Ghana Premier League’s standout defenders, anchoring a Kotoko side that won the 2025 Toyota Cup under his leadership and pushed for domestic honours.
O’Neil closed his message with a pledge of lifelong support for the club, describing the spirit of the Porcupine Warrior as forever part of his identity, and wished Kotoko continued success, trophies and glory in seasons to come.