I can't guarantee a trophy next season - Hearts of Oak coach Aboubakar Ouattara

Hearts of Oak head coach Aboubakar Ouattara has candidly acknowledged that he cannot guarantee a trophy for the Phobians next season. Instead, his primary target is to ensure the team avoids another relegation battle.

Last season, Hearts narrowly escaped relegation by securing a crucial win against Bechem United on the final day, finishing 14th on the league table with 45 points.

Speaking at a press conference organized by the club, Ouattara outlined his priorities, saying, "My target is to ensure we don’t battle relegation next season. The supporters always want us to win, and any big team is expected to compete for trophies. But for now, our main focus is to build a solid team and avoid the relegation zone."

He further explained, "In football, fan agitation is normal. Man proposes, but God disposes. For instance, Wydad Casablanca and ASEC Mimosa, who are typically strong teams, have faced crises and failed to qualify for continental competitions. We need to focus on stability and gradual improvement. I can’t guarantee a trophy next season, but I am committed to building a team that can compete and stay clear of relegation."

Ouattara’s emphasis on stability and team-building reflects a pragmatic approach to addressing the challenges faced by Hearts of Oak, aiming for consistent performance and long-term success.