Immediate former Tusker FC head coach Robert Matano has joined Sofapaka SC in the same capacity for an unknown period.
The experienced gaffer didn’t “tarmac” for long as the new job came barely 48 hours after parting ways with the Brewers following a successful six-year deal.
In an exclusive interview with Radio Jambo weekend warm-up show, Matano believes he achieved his goals during his second stint at Ruaraka and leaves a happy man despite some people having a contrary opinion.
“I joined Tusker in 2018 while they were at position 18 on the log. I led them to position three, which was the worst position he ever achieved. In the other five seasons, I won two titles in 2021 and 2022 and finished behind Gor Mahia on three occasions," said Matano
The fearless son of “Mulembe nation” proudly holds the record of the most successful active Kenyan coach, having won four KPL titles among other accolades, during his industrious career.
Matano, 60, returns to his former home, having led “Batoto Ba Mungu” to their only league title during their maiden season in 2009. He hopes to change their fortunes after they narrowly escaped relegation last season by a whisker.
The gaffer confirmed before Sofapaka’s offer that he had an offer from a Zimbabwean top side, but the club decided to see their coach run out of his contract in three months.
Matano replaces Zedekiah 'Zico' Otieno who left last season and will be tasked with changing the club from a bottom-side mentality to title contenders.
He didn’t disclose his backroom staff but interim coach Ezekiel Akwana, who helped Sofapaka maintain their league status with a 2-0 aggregate win over NSL side Naivas, is likely to be his assistant, as he chases the compulsory Caf 'A' license.
Matano will start his new journey on Monday (this morning) at Eastleigh High School and hopes to implement his winning blueprint immediately.
The gaffer, who wears another cap as the Kenya National Football Coaches Association (KENFOCA) chairman, refuted controversial claims of using Black Magic “juju” to win matches. He claimed: "Every successful person is always fought by failures around him."
He said: “People say I break eggs and write opposing player’s names to instil fear in them. Where does such antics work in this world? They can also break the eggs and win. Success in football is all about tactics, structures, motivation and focus. There’s nothing like juju."
Matano said he only pointed out Harambee Stars' weakness in player selection and refuted claims that assistant coach Ken Odhiambo wasn’t good enough.
While he plans to help Sofapaka out of the woods, Matano expects tough challenges.
Matanosaid giants Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards can become African giants but they have to borrow a leaf from other big sides and motivate top players with good incentives.
He tipped FKF Cup winners Police FC to continue soaring high after their management led by CEO Chris Oguso placed good structures and signed top internationals.