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The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League kicks-off tomorrow without a title sponsor, but reliable information indicates that negotiations for three league sponsors are at an advanced level and the paper work could be completed next week just a few days after the kick-off.

It is believed that there is a gaming firm set to come in as the main league sponsors and two broadcast sponsors with the deals close to being sealed.

Meanwhile, Shabana FC head coach Sammy Okoth has predicted a tough outing when they face fellow debutants Murang’a Seal FC in their opening fixture of the 2023-24 season on Sunday.

The Kisii-based Glamour Boys will mark a return to the top-flight after 17 years in the cold following their great success in winning the National Super League (NSL) on the final day of the season. Shabana who topped the table, were promoted alongside Murang’a Seal and they will now face off at Homabay Stadium.

“Two promoted sides facing each other in the season opener is always a tricky fixture anywhere in the world, and we must be ready to battle all the way for the maximum points,” Okoth said ahead of the fixture, adding: “We played against twice last season, remember that was in NSL, and our return leg was quite tense as it was to decide the title race.”

Okoth added: “Though we lost 2-1, we dominated them but they eventually won the battle, but that is water under the bridge now, we are in a new season, we have new players, they have new players, so expect a tough game altogether.”

Shabana have reinforced their squad with the arrivals of former Sofapaka, Tusker, and Bandari defender Rodgers Aloro, Johana Mwita from Bandari, Prince Ayieko from Nzoia Sugar, Hillary Wandera, and Mark Ogolla from Vihiga United. Meanwhile, since gaining promotion, Muranga under coach Vincent Nyaberi have not been actively involved in the transfer market and it remains to be seen what squad will be available for selection.

Meanwhile, Muhoroni Youth, who won the NSL play-off against Migori Youth to join the league, will open their campaign against Nairobi City Stars at Kasarani Annex on Sunday. The Muhoroni-based side were promoted as Wazito FC but they later changed their name to Muhoroni Youth.

Muhoroni chairman Moses Adagala has maintained their key target for the season is to keep their status in the league.

“We want to stay up and it will be important we win our matches,” said Adagala, adding: “We want to play to stay in the league, and then maybe next season we can set another target.”