Sofapaka redeploys Ouma, set to appoint Burundian as head coach
By Joel Sang, August 1, 2023Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Sofapaka have made a technical change in anticipation of a new head coach.
David Ouma, who has been the head coach, has been given a new role at the club and will henceforth serve as the club’s sporting director. Before he was given the head coach duties, Ouma served as the technical director, and the new move means he is moving back to his previous docket.
New coach
Reports indicate that Batoto ba Mungu are close to appointing Francis Harigingo, a Burundian and former Rayon Sports head coach, as the new man in charge. Harigingo resigned from his position at the Rwandan club making himself available for a new adventure.
The Burundian has extensive experience as he has also worked for Kiyovu, Mukura FC, and Police FC in the Rwandan Premier League and is reportedly coming to Kenya with his assistant, Claude Rwaka, as well as one more member of the backroom staff.
The Burunddian is expected to be confirmed as the new head coach for Sofapaka on Wednesday, August 1, 2023, in order to lead the club in the pre-season before the 2023–24 season begins.
Transfer activities
Meanwhile, a number of new players are expected to be signed by the 2009 Premier League champions. Former Kenya Police FC winger Arvine Odoyo, who had a short stint with Murang’a Seal FC in the National Super League, is currently training with Sofapaka.
Oliver Maloba, a former Nairobi City Stars, Tusker FC, and Gor Mahia midfielder Oliveer Maloba is also training with the Premier League side.
Meanwhile, Batoto ba Mungu are expected to sign a new goalkeeper as a matter of priority following the departure of Kevin Omondi to Gor Mahia. Goalkeeper Bonphas Munyasa and defender Elvis Ronack are also set to leave the club, as they have been training with the newly-promoted Premier League side, Murang’a Seal.
After two seasons with Batoto ba Mungu, Congolese striker Roddy Manga is understood to have left, while the club has reportedly released left-back Levian Ochieng.