Former Arsenal and Manchester City star, Kolo Toure, has put pen to paper on a three-and-a-half-year managerial deal with Wigan Athletic.
‘The Latics’ currently stand in 22nd place in the Championship, as a result of a terrible run of form under, Leam Richardson, who received the sack in early November. Therefore, fans will hope that their new head coach, who’s left Leicester to pursue the role, has the minerals to help their side avoid relegation.
The club’s chief executive officer, Malachy Brannigan, said: “We are delighted that Kolo has become the new manager of Wigan Athletic Football Club. The board are pleased that he is the man to take us forward.
“We received a high calibre of applicants for the manager’s job in recent weeks, in a very thorough recruitment process as we looked to appoint the right person for the role. From the earliest of conversations we had with Kolo, it was evident to us that he had instantly bought into the values of the club with his enthusiasm, knowledge and immense desire to work and be part of Wigan Athletic, shining throughout the process.
“There is no doubt that this appointment is an exciting one for the football club. Kolo is a manager who wants to play a positive brand of football. And will strive every day to make the club stronger.”
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Kolo Toure takes over at Wigan
The ex-Ivory Coast international and African Cup of Nations Champion, has a long history in England. He initially arrived at the Emirates in 2002, winning the Premier League as a part of the Invincibles side. The Ivorian eventually left Arsenal for Manchester City, where he picked up another league title in 2012.
In addition, he enjoyed spells with Liverpool and Celtic, before offering his coaching skills to Brendan Rodgers. The powerhouse remained in Glasgow before moving to Leicester, where he poached two staff members. Both Kevin Betsy and Ashvir Johal have joined him at Wigan.
Furthermore, caretaker manager, Rob Kelly, will remain at the club as an assistant coach. However, James Beattie has left his position.
Toure is now set to catch a flight to Turkey to meet his new squad. The players are currently in training camp, preparing for the new gaffer’s first game against Millwall on December 10.
Featured Image Credit: Wigan Athletic
