The Gambia National Sports Council has officially announced the appointment of the immediate former Gor Mahia tactician, Jonathan McKinstry, as the Head Coach of the Gambia Men’s national football team.

The 38-year-old Northern Irishman’s task ahead, in his two-year contract in Gambia, is to help the country secure a slot at the 2025 African Cup Of Nations (AFCON).

McKinstry has stated that it was an honor coaching the Kenyan Premier League giants as he bid farewell to the players and supporters of the club on his way out to take up the mantle from the Belgian, Tom Saintfiet.

“It’s been a huge honor. Gor is one of the most storied clubs in Africa; the link with the community and history of the club is what really attracted me to come here. The roots of the club are grown deep in the community. When the team wins or loses, it is not just about supporters but goes deep into their families as well,” the tactician said, speaking to the club’s official social media channels.

McKinstry came out on top after 90 initial applications for the Gambia job and was eventually whittled down to three finalists.

“The National Sports Council under the Ministry of Youth and Sports is delighted to announce the appointment of a Senior National Football Team Coach, in the person of Mr. Johnathan McKinstry,” read a statement from the Gambian National Sports Council.

“In this regard, the general public is hereby informed that Johnathan McKinstry has been appointed on two years contract by the Ministry of Youth and Sports.”

The tactician, who has previously coached the national teams of Sierra Leone, Rwanda and Uganda, said he had a deep desire to join Gor Mahia.

Gambia are in the same group as Kenya for the World Cup qualifiers, but before a return to the country, McKinstry will lead the team to matches against Seychelles at home and away to Gabon.

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