Synergy, verve reverberate in heart of youthful tactician
By Barry Silah, March 4, 2020He might only be 25 years of age, but nothing gives that way when he is shouting orders and instructions on the pitch. This is the story of young football coach Patrick Muchiri.
“Shee” as he is popularly referred to by his peers is not your ordinary coach; he currently handles FC Talanta, a Betika Super League (BSL) outfit.
At close range, he appears like one of the players which is hardly far-fetched since he still plays alongside them in training, but he stands tall for his command and character.
“I love the experience so far, it has been wonderful and this is because I relate well with the players,” says Muchiri as we begin our interview at Kasarani Stadium during the team’s morning drill.
He has so far handled three matches; winning two and losing one and he is a work in progress by his own admission.
The youthful tactician is hungry and disciplined at the same time; one of the reasons he was appointed on interim basis to replace Ken Kenyatta.
FC Talanta currently occupies a precarious 14th spot in the championship but Muchiri and his team has a target higher.
“For us, top 10 is achievable and we want to work towards that. The first leg was rough for us but as a unit we have stood together and agreed to reach our goal.
We speak one language and management is helpful which has helped me adjust to my new responsibilities,” adds the player-coach who is currently working on his badges.
Muchiri has been with the club for eighth years under different faces at the helm which has opened his eyes.
Straight from the early days of John Kamau all the way to Abdalla Juma,he has worked with at least eight coaches who have built in him leadership skills.
“I would not be where I am if not for some of my coaches’ polishing,” says the former GFE 105 player.
Muchiri who has featured for the national U17 and U20 national teams under Ken Odhiambo and Gabriel Kingi believes he has the potential for greatness. “I am patient and eager to learn.
This is why I consult a lot and do my personal research because it is helpful in the long run,” says Muchiri who idolises Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola for his tactical abilities.
Team captain Michael Muya is full of praise for the young boss and believes he will be a future star.
“He knows how to handle us and importantly he respects us. Ours is to help him and the Management improve from where we are.”