Shabana FC were the most active club during the 2024/25 FKF Premier League pre-season transfer window, which closed on Monday by signing a record 14.
The Glamour Boys also parted ways with 15 players who were part of the squad in the 2023/24 season.
The new players are Brian Bett (Luanda Villa), Kevin Omundi (MCF), Shem Oluoch (City Stars), Cliff Nyakeya, Maxwell Muchesia and Emmanuel Lwangu (Leopards).
Others are —Brian Marvin (Murang’a Seal), Sam Kintu (UPDF, Uganda), James Mazembe (KCB) and Amai Atariza (Bandari).
Others are Elvis Ochieng (Posta Rangers), Stephen Otieno (Ulinzi Stars), Austin Odongo (Leeds Sports Club), and Dennis Okoth (Tusker FC).
Players who left the club are Mustapha Oduor (Talanta), Brian Kiako (Gucha Youth), Ezekiel Owade (Mara Sugar), Wycliffe Nthata (Vihiga United), Brian Odhiambo (SamWest Black Boots) and Nehemiah Onchiri (SamWest Black Boots).
Stephen Ochieng (Kisumu All Stars), Japhet Lihanda (Kariobangi Legends) and Victor Juma (Migori Youth), Peter Ogechi, Eugene Mukangula, Rodgers Aloro, Prince Ayieko, Brian Magare and Enock Agwanda also left following the expiry of their contracts.
Shabana coach Sammy Omollo said he is satisfied with the summer signings. “We were very specific when we went into the market. We wanted to strengthen some areas, where we felt we had gaps last season. We have signed two very solid goalkeepers and also strengthened other areas,” said Omollo.
He added: “We have strengthened all departments and added competition in the squad. Last season, we didn’t have depth. We have signed 14 players and retained 13 who helped us survive relegation.”
He hailed the signing of forwards Okoth from Tusker Youth and Odongo who is a student at Ebwali Secondary.
“They have attributes of being lethal strikers. Okoth will compete with our number nine Mathew Tegisi while Odongo will join us after finishing his KCSE examinations,” added the tactician. He assured fans that the club will not struggle like last season.
The club started the season with a 1-1 draw away to Bidco United two weeks ago and will play Ulinzi Stars at Kinoru Stadium in Meru next weekend.
“We are lucky we don’t have a game this weekend. By the time we play Ulinzi Stars, we will be ready for them,” noted the tactician.
