DRC: AS Maniema Union settle for coach Koné

The Democratic Republic of the Congo side AS Maniema Union have unveiled Lassina Koné as their new coach. The Ivorian has replaced Papy Kimoto, who joined Singida Black Stars in the Tanzanian Premier League in April 2026.

In a statement released on Sunday evening, AS Maniema Union said they settled for Koné as the new head coach to tap from the wealth of his experience spanning decades.

Lassina Koné: Experienced coach For AS Maniema Union

“With nearly 40 years of experience, the Ivorian technician arrives with a clear mission: to bring the Unionists back to the African stage and shine. A new, ambitious chapter opens. Welcome back, coach,” reads the statement by AS Maniema Union.

In this first speech after arriving in Lubumbashi, the Ivorian technician said he was excited to take up the challenge of steering the club back to glory while also ensuring that they compete strongly in continental competitions.

The Linafoot Ligue 1 outfit represented Congo in the 2025 CAF Confederation Cup group stages.

The new coach, a disciplinarian who demands hard work, is expected to ensure that Maniema compete again in the continental cup.

Koné boasts of over 40 years’ experience in the coaching business, having managed teams such as Africa Sports in Abidjan, Stade Malien and Sewé Sport in San Pedro.