Mathare United confirms departure of 8 players
By Joel Masibo, July 29, 2025Football Kenya Federation Premier League club Mathare United has confirmed the departure of eight players whose contracts have come to an end ahead of the 2025/26 football season.
In an official statement released by the club on Tuesday, August 29, 2025, the 2008 Premier League champions expressed their appreciation for the contributions of the outgoing players during their time with the team.
The players released by the Slum Boys include Daniel Odhiambo, Starlon Odhiambo, Henry Oballa, Steve Njunge, Erickson Mulu, Godfrey Rabar, Eugene Mukangula, and Michael Wanyika.
The mass exit signals the beginning of a new chapter for Mathare United as they look to rebuild and restructure their squad for the upcoming campaign. The team, which has undergone significant changes in recent seasons both on and off the pitch, is expected to announce new signings and technical adjustments in the coming weeks.
Of the departing players, several were regular figures in the squad, including goalkeeper Steve Njunge and experienced midfielder Eugene Mukangula, who brought leadership and stability in the middle of the park. Their absence will likely leave a gap in the team’s structure that head coach John Kamau and his technical bench will need to fill as they prepare for the new season.
Nurturing young talent
Mathare United, a club known for nurturing young talent, is expected to continue focusing on youth development while also adding experienced players to improve its competitiveness in the league.
The 2025/26 season will be crucial for the Goan Institute-based side as they aim to restore their place among the top teams in the country. The upcoming preseason will offer a glimpse into the team’s new direction, especially after this shake-up in the squad.
In the competitive top-tier football, Mathare holds the record of giving talented players sourced from across Nairobi’s informal settlements and beyond. A notable figure on the team is Alex Warai, a young, talented forward who joined the former Premier League winners from a Division Two side, New Mathare, at the end of last season.
Mathare United finished tenth in the 2024/2025 Football Kenya Federation Premier League season with 42 points in 34 outings.