Julius Ben Emunah has resigned as Managing Director of Accra Hearts of Oak, bringing an abrupt end to his tenure at the helm of the Ghanaian football giants after just eight months in the role.
Emunah announced his decision in a statement on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, describing his resignation as one made with a “heavy heart” and “not an easy decision to make.”
A Difficult Decision
In a message to the Phobian family, the outgoing Managing Director expressed gratitude to the club’s Board for the opportunity to serve, stating that serving Hearts of Oak had been “a great honour and a deeply rewarding experience.”
He particularly thanked the Board, led by the club’s Board Chairman, HRH Togbe Afede XIV, for the “trust, confidence and opportunity” given him during his time in office.
Emunah also expressed appreciation to the National Chapters Committee (NCC), led by Alhaji Yusif Abdulai, for what he described as their support and “brotherly love” throughout his tenure.
Not Stepping Away
Despite stepping down from his executive position, Emunah stressed that his association with the club would continue.
“Although I am stepping down from my role, I am not stepping away from the club,” he said, reaffirming his commitment as a supporter of the Phobians.
He further pledged to remain available to serve, assist and support Hearts in whatever capacity possible, adding that he remains “a proud and committed supporter.”
The former Managing Director concluded his message by expressing confidence in the club’s future, saying he leaves the position with “immense appreciation” and a firm conviction that the club has a bright future ahead.
A Brief Tenure
Emunah was appointed as Hearts of Oak’s Managing Director on February 2, 2026, succeeding Dr Delali Anku-Adiamah, who had stepped down from the position.
At the time of his appointment, the club’s Board of Directors expressed confidence in his ability to lead Hearts of Oak into “a new phase of professionalism, transparency and competitiveness in line with international standards.”
Before joining Hearts of Oak, Emunah had built nearly a decade of experience in football administration, governance, sports broadcasting and sports management at both national and continental levels. He most recently served as Head of Competitions at the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
His previous roles at the GFA included Regional Administrator at the Western Regional Football Association, National Safety and Security Officer, and Club Licensing Manager.
Emunah holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from the University of Cape Coast and a Global Master’s in Sports Management and Legal Skills with FC Barcelona at ISDE Law Business School in Spain.
As Managing Director, he was responsible for overseeing the club’s administrative, commercial and sporting activities, working closely with the technical team, players, supporters, sponsors and other stakeholders.
Departure Follows Strong League Start
Emunah’s resignation comes just days after Hearts of Oak opened their 2026/27 Ghana Premier League campaign with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Berekum Chelsea at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The Phobians produced one of the strongest performances of the opening weekend, with veteran striker John Antwi scoring twice in the first half, while debutant Mamadou Kader Kouroumaa and Ali Mohammed added goals in the second half.
The victory handed new Hearts coach Nebojsa Kapor his first competitive win since returning to the league and put the club at the top of the league table after the opening round of matches.
Reactions and Speculation
While Emunah characterised his departure as a voluntary resignation, some reports have suggested he was forced to step down due to concerns over his administrative performance. However, the club has not officially confirmed any such details, and the exact circumstances surrounding his departure remain unclear.
As of now, Hearts of Oak have not announced a replacement for Emunah, and further details regarding the club’s next Managing Director are expected to be revealed in due course.
About Accra Hearts of Oak
Accra Hearts of Oak remains one of Africa’s most storied football clubs. Founded in 1911, the club has won a record 21 Ghana Premier League titles and is the only Ghanaian side to have won all three different continental titles — the CAF Champions League (2000), CAF Super Cup (2001), and CAF Confederation Cup (2004), a feat that earned them the nickname “The Continental Club Masters.”
The club celebrates its 115th anniversary in November 2026.
