The FKF Premier League transfer window slammed shut on Monday, September 9th, 2024, at midnight, leaving a trail of movement and change across the Kenyan football landscape. Shabana FC emerged as the most active club in the market, making a bold 14 new statement signings. This shopping spree included three players pilfered from AFC Leopards, significantly bolstering Shabana’s squad. However, the ambitious club wasn’t afraid to trim the fat, releasing a staggering 15 players who found themselves scattered across various teams in the league.
Hot on Shabana’s heels were Mathare United, another team determined to shake things up. They aggressively brought in 14 new faces, scouring the likes of Soy United, Kayole Youngstars, and AFC Leopards to unearth hidden gems. This influx of talent came at a cost, with Mathare United parting ways with 13 players to make room for the new arrivals.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Nairobi City Stars took a more measured approach. Their transfer activity was relatively quiet, with only five players brought in to bolster the squad. Sven Yidah, Brian Opinde, James Ssemambo, Stephen Bulugu, and Andre Kalama were the lucky few to secure contracts with the club. Nairobi City Stars also released six players to streamline their squad.
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While these three teams represent a microcosm of the transfer activity that unfolded, the movement ran deep throughout the league. Here’s a closer look at how some of the other clubs fared:
AFC Leopards, despite losing players to Shabana and Mathare United, weren’t shy about bolstering their own ranks. They secured the signatures of Sydney Lokale, Peter Maker Mabok, Julius Masaba, and Samuel Semo Mbaja, signaling their intent to challenge for the top spots.
Bandari FC also made some key acquisitions, bringing in Geoffrey Ojunga, Shariff Ambwombo, Izzadin Juma, and William Gitama. Notably, John Macharia made the switch from Gor Mahia to Bandari, adding experience to their midfield.
Bidco United wasn’t content to rest on their laurels either. They secured the services of Dennis Murunga, Evans Makari, Cliff Oruko, and Simon Munala, amongst others. These additions aim to propel Bidco United further up the table.
Gor Mahia, a perennial powerhouse, also made significant changes. They brought in established names like Alphonce Omija, Enock Morrison, Chris Akena, and Samuel Kapen, while saying goodbye to Alvin Ochieng and John Macharia.
The musical chairs continued as Kakamega Homeboyz welcomed Boniface Onyango, Gabriel Wandera, and Isaiah Wakasala to their ranks. Notably, Alvin Ochieng, who departed Gor Mahia, found a new home at Kakamega Homeboyz.
Kariobangi Sharks also revamped their squad, signing Brian Odhiambo, Paul Jawa, Zablon Kutela, and Evans Ochieng. With these additions, they aim to challenge for a top-four finish.
KCB FC addressed some weaknesses by acquiring the likes of Francis Kahiro, James Kinyanjui, Bonphas Munyasa, and Dennis Kweyu. These signings are a clear indication of their desire to improve on their last season’s performance.
Kenya Police FC wasn’t left behind either. They bolstered their squad with Alfred Leku, Brian Musa, John Samuel Njau, and Jackson Irungu. Notably, experienced forward Jafari Owitti returned to Kenya Police FC after a stint with AFC Leopards.
Mara Sugar cast a wide net, bringing in Awita Batts, Meshack Makokha, Noah Ngiendo, and Samuel Oluoch. Interestingly, Sati Loren James, who left AFC Leopards, found a new home at Mara Sugar.
While some teams actively reshaped their squads, others opted for a more conservative approach. Sofapaka FC, for instance, focused on trimming their squad, with Amos Asembeka and Jacob Onyango being some of the notable departures.
FC Talanta also participated in the transfer market, bringing in Mustapha Oduor, Edwin Njuma, Phabian Odhiambo, and Bernard Odhiambo. However, they lost Isaiah Wakasala, who joined Kakamega Homeboyz.
Tusker FC wasn’t afraid to spend, acquiring George Kaddu, Boban Ziritusa, Thomas Omole, and Dennis Wanjala. They also brought back Joseph Ochuka from Bandari FC.
Ulinzi Stars, on the other hand, focused on youth development, bringing in a wave of young talent like Dennis Owino, Felix Otieno, Brian Okello Emilio, and Joseph Ochieng.
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