‘Nobody makes more sacrifice than me’ – Harambee Stars’ Firat complains over unpaid salaries
By Joel Sang, September 5, 2023Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has lamented over his delayed salaries.
It is understood that the Turkish tactician has not received his pay for months now, despite an earlier promise by the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Ababu Namwamba, that the ministry was going to deal with the issue.
‘Nothing is paid’
Firat said he is the only man making a lot of sacrifices in the Kenyan soccer circle, given that he has gone without a salary for some time now.
“For salaries, I will answer like this. There is nobody in Kenyan football who makes more sacrifices than me. Of course, nothing is paid,” Firat told the press.
In June, Namwamba had promised that his ministry would clear Firat’s outstanding dues.
“I am fully aware of the government’s obligations towards our national football teams, and I can assure you that we are working closely to play our role, which includes paying the team’s head coach and his assistants so that they can prepare our teams accordingly,” Namwamba said then.
Selection question
Meanwhile, Firat explained what informs his decision when selecting players for Harambee Stars’ assignments.
“The national team setup is completely different with clubs. For the last few friendly fixtures, I have used different players in different formations just to see how they work together. After all, that’s the meaning of friendlies.
“Stability won’t come without taking a chance. Multiple games offer me a chance to see things that fans don’t normally see. In the camp, you look at player mentality, systems, and how various combinations work. It’s all an oblique process,” he added.
Once again, the former Moldova head coach hit back at critics who have always had problems with his selections.
“I have trouble understanding the criticisms made by others, and I wish they would comprehend my perspective. I’ve come across comments suggesting that I don’t select local-based players. However, my initial consideration is always for all players, whether they are based inside or outside Kenya.
“It’s important to note that these so-called foreign-based players aren’t born abroad; they originate from local clubs like Michael Olunga, Marcello (Eric Ouma) from Gor Mahia, or Collins (Sichenje) from AFC Leopards,” Firat concluded.
Harambee Stars are in camp ahead of two friendlies against Qatar and South Sudan during the September FIFA international break.