Kolo Touré is the new manager of Wigan Athletic, the Championship club announced via the official channels. The 41-year-old Ivorian started his first job as head coach on Tuesday morning. Touré, who played as a player for Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool, among others, has signed a contract until mid-2026. He comes over from Leicester City, where the former defender was an assistant to Brendan Rodgers.
Malachy Brannigan, director at Wigan, says via the club website that he is satisfied with Toure’s appointment. “We are delighted to have Kolo as the new manager of Wigan Athletic. The board is grateful for his confidence in the club’s vision and believes he is the right man to take steps forward with.” At Wigan, Touré faces a tough job: the Latics are currently 22nd in the Championship.
???? The new era begins…#wafc ???? #BELIEVE pic.twitter.com/BmghKbvxNe
— Wigan Athletic (@LaticsOfficial) November 29, 2022
On November 10, Wigan said goodbye to Leam Richardson due to the disappointing performance. The 43-year-old Englishman was at the helm of the club for more than two seasons, and last season became champion in the EFL League One. A level higher, Wigan did a lot less under Richardson: no less than ten of the first 21 games were lost. Touré will have to avoid relegation from the Championship.
In his playing career, the 118-time international from Ivory Coast was mainly used to playing for prizes. Touré was part of the Invincibles who became undefeated champions with Arsenal in the 2003/04 season. Later he also won the Premier League with Manchester City. Touré won the Africa Cup with his country, while he also became champion of Scotland with Celtic. Kolo’s younger brother, Yaya Touré, is active as a youth coach at Tottenham Hotspur.