Kariobangi Sharks sign Messi from Sofapaka
By Luke Oluoch, July 20, 2025Football Kenya Premier League side Kariobangi Sharks have confirmed the acquisition of Wayne Dalvine Otieno.
The midfielder, also known by his peers as Messi, joins the club from Sofapaka FC following the expiry of his contract.
First signing
“Wayne Dalvine Otieno is our first addition. Blessed with an impressive repertoire and signature flair, he joins from Sofapaka FC,” a statement from Sharks said.
Hailing from Mathare North, Otieno, who is largely deployed in the midfield role, proved a crucial cog in Ezekiel Akwana’s side, featuring prominently in the club’s late resurgence that saw them finish in the league top ten.
His stint at Batoto Ba Mungu earned him valuable experience playing alongside Jack Ong’anya and Humprey Mieno in the team’s three-man midfield.
Kenya U20 call-up
The 2025 season saw him earn a call-up to the U20 national team fold alongside his teammates Baron Ochieng, Meshack Odhis, Jack Ong’anya, Derick Khaemba, and Charles Junior.
He, however, did not make the cut in Salim Babu’s final team that represented the country in the junior continental games in Egypt.
Otieno’s acquisition follows after William Muluya’s charges lost midfielder Biron Otieno to Shabana.
The holding midfielder sealed a dream move to the Gusii-based team after impressing with the Sharks in what went down as a turbulent season for the former FKF Cup champions.
Speaking after his move, Otieno stated that he was ready to get going after snubbing interest from the likes of Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards to agree to a contract with the Tore Bobe.
“I am glad for the opportunity to join this club. I feel like a champion. I’m ready to be a champion again,” he stated. “What made me come to this club is the love I have for this team and how its fans push the team. I also love the players here, like Keith and Masai, among others,” he opined.
Otieno also left a message to Shabana’s fans as he aims to push the team to a top-flight title.
Give my best
“I am ready to play for a club with a huge fan base. I’m ready to chase a title here. I want to tell the fans that I will give my best in the games I will feature for the team,” he stated.