Francis Kimanzi’s 3rd stint at Mathare United starts as Slum Boys visit Mulembe United
Former Harambee Stars coach Francis Kimanzi is set to embark on his third tenure at Mathare United, returning to the club as they gear up to face Mulembe United at the Mumias Complex in the National Super League.
Kimanzi's return follows the resignation of Leonard Odipo after Mathare United's 3-0 defeat to MCF FC on Sunday in Machakos.
Kimanzi back at Mathare United
Taking charge of his boyhood club for the remainder of the season, Kimanzi aims to guide Mathare United back to the top tier of Kenyan football. 
His appointment coincides with the team currently sitting second on the National Super League standings, tied on 49 points with Nairobi United, but trailing leaders Naivas FC by three points.
The upcoming match against Mulembe United marks a significant moment for Kimanzi and Mathare United, as it officially commences his third stint as head coach.
Kimanzi's connection with Mathare United runs deep, having played for the club from 1994 to 2002 before transitioning into a managerial role.
His coaching journey saw him appointed as the full-time manager of the Kenyan national team in December 2008, following a caretaker stint since May of the same year. However, disputes between him and Kenyan football administrators led to his dismissal after the 2008 CECAFA Cup.
Mathare United stint
Despite challenges, Kimanzi's coaching career saw him return to Mathare United as manager in 2015 after a brief spell with Tusker FC.
His return to the Kenyan national team in August 2019 was short-lived, as he was dismissed from coaching duties in October 2020. Subsequently, he took on the managerial role at Wazito FC, only to part ways with the club following disagreements over player salary payments with the owner, Ricardo Badoer. 
Now, as Kimanzi steps back into the familiar territory of Mathare United, the club looks to him for leadership and guidance. With his wealth of experience and deep-rooted connection to the team, Kimanzi's return signals a renewed sense of hope and determination as Mathare chase promotion.
