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Although there are reports suggesting that Engin Firat has resigned from his role as head coach, Kimanzi, who has been tipped to make a return as coach, has explained why the Turk, as well as the new FKF stakeholders, should learn to embrace criticism.
Former Harambee Stars head coach Francis Kimanzi has called on Kenyan football stakeholders, including embattled national team coach Engin Firat, to adopt a more open approach to criticism.
Kimanzi's remarks come in the wake of Hussein Mohammed's appointment as the new president of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), an event that has sparked fresh debates about the future of Kenyan football.
Speaking to Pulse Sports, Kimanzi emphasized the importance of criticism in fostering the development of football.
"Terminology like criticism is often perceived as negative," he said. "But criticism is very good for the development of the game. It’s feedback. Highlighting areas for improvement should not be seen as an attack but as an opportunity to grow.
The former Mathare United coach noted that fear of victimization among coaches, players, and other stakeholders often hampers progress. "Victimization is not a threat we should entertain. Feedback, even if critical, is necessary to evolve and advance the game."
With reports suggesting that Engin Firat may have resigned following Kenya's failed qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, calls for Kimanzi to return to the national team’s helm have gained traction. Former Harambee Stars captain Dennis Oliech is among those advocating for Kimanzi’s reinstatement.
Kimanzi, a seasoned tactician and certified coaching instructor, is considered a strong candidate to take over should Firat's departure be confirmed. His previous support for Team Fresh, led by Hussein Mohammed, during the FKF elections, has further strengthened his alignment with the federation's new leadership.
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15:00 - 09.12.2024
Hussein Mohammed evasive over Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat's future after taking over as new FKF boss
Mohammed has adressed his stance over the future of Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat following his election as new FKF President.
Reflecting on the current state of Kenyan football, Kimanzi stressed the need to refine the existing foundation rather than start from scratch.
"We’ve seen promising young players in the Under-20 team that competed in Tanzania," he said. "There is already something left behind. The focus now should be on polishing that to reach the next level."
Kimanzi also urged stakeholders to adapt to the evolving dynamics of modern football. "The game doesn’t change, but we need to catch up with its evolution," he noted.
Kimanzi’s presence at the FKF elections at the Kasarani Indoor Arena and his vocal support for Hussein Mohammed symbolize his commitment to fostering unity and progress within Kenyan football. As the new regime takes office, Kimanzi’s call for embracing constructive criticism and collaboration resonates as a vital step toward revitalizing the sport in the country.
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11:00 - 08.12.2024
Francis Kimazi coy over possible Harambee Stars return as Engin Firat's future hangs in the balance
It is increasingly likely Engin Firat will not continue in his role as Harambee Stars head coach especially after Hussein Mohammed was elected new FKF president, and Francis Kimanzi has been tipped to return to the role.
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