AFC Leopards have been hit by injuries ahead of their first 2026 fixture against Kakamega Homeboys at Nyayo National Stadium on January 4, 2025. The team returned to training this week in preparation for the match, but injury concerns could affect their squad selection.

Striker Elias Mugane will miss the rest of the season following a serious knee injury. Mugane, who joined Leopards at the start of the campaign from National Super League side Fortune Sacco, suffered a complete anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, a partial tear of the lateral collateral ligament complex, and a Grade 3 tear of the medial meniscus.

He underwent surgery on December 9, 2025, and is now sidelined until the 2026/27 season.

“Our centre forward Elias Mugane had a complete Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) rupture and partial tear of the Lateral Collateral Ligament Complex. A grade 3 tear of medial meniscus. He underwent surgery on 9th December and will be out for the remainder of the season,” the club posted on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in their social media accounts.

Mugane’s injury comes after a promising start to his top-flight career. He was the joint top scorer at Fortune Sacco before moving to Leopards, but limited game time and now this serious injury has halted his momentum. The club had hoped he would play a key role in their title push.

Mahiga also out

In addition to Mugane, left-back Vincent Mahiga is also out of action. Mahiga injured his ankle in a FKF Premier League match against Kariobangi Sharks at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and is awaiting further medical assessments to determine the severity of the injury. His absence adds pressure to the defence ahead of the crucial New Year match.

“Our left back Vincent Mahiga is also out awaiting further medical checks after suffering an ankle injury in our FKF-PL match against Kariobangi Sharks at Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani.”

Alushula returns, boosting Leopards

There was some positive news for AFC Leopards. Midfielder Fredrick Alushula has returned to training after a lengthy period out due to knee surgery. Alushula underwent an operation to repair a torn meniscus and is expected to provide a boost to the team as they approach the busy January 2026 schedule. His return will strengthen a backline that has been among the strongest in the league so far.

“Fredrick Alushula has resumed training after a lengthy sidelining period after undergoing knee surgery to repair his torn meniscus.”

Despite these setbacks, Leopards sit at the top of the FKF Premier League table with 24 points from 13 matches, having suffered only one defeat this season. The team will need to manage its squad carefully to maintain its lead, especially with challenging fixtures coming up, including the Ingo Derby against Kakamega Homeboys, an away trip to Tusker FC, and a home match against AS Bomet.