Gor Mahia coach McKinstry has discussed the failed transfer of star striker Benson Omala to JS Saoura citing complexities and disappointment in the saga.
Gor Mahia head coach Johnathan McKinstry has spoken out on the collapsed transfer deal involving the club's star striker Benson Omala,and Algerian outfit JS Saoura.
The anticipated six-month loan move hit a snag, much to the dismay of the parties involved with Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier pointing fingers at individuals including Omala's agent Stephen Ochiel for the breakdown.
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In a candid revelation, McKinstry expressed his disappointment especially on behalf of Omala.
"Yeah, it was quite a situation, you know. Obviously, we're very disappointed for him, first and foremost. As a club, we reached figures that we were comfortable with, allowing him to pursue the opportunity," McKinstry detailed.
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The deal's complexity became a public spectacle, with varying narratives complicating the proceedings.
"But at the same time, there's been considerable public debate. People have observed different things, making it clear the deal wasn't straightforward. Had it been simpler, I believe it would have happened," he added.
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McKinstry, focusing on the football aspect, mentioned his non-involvement in the negotiations but acknowledged the club's consultation regarding Omala's temporary departure.
"The club sought my opinion on whether we could manage without Benson, and I believed we could. Given our depth and the quoted figures, we felt it was acceptable to proceed," he explained.
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However, the urgency from JS Saoura to expedite the deal raised red flags for Gor Mahia, leading to a cautious approach in finalizing the paperwork.
"However, there seemed to be some urgency from the other side of the deal, trying to expedite things. For us, it was crucial not to be rushed, ensuring the paperwork was accurate and all details were correctly documented. By the time everything was rectified, it appeared to be too late," McKinstry noted, emphasizing the importance of due diligence over haste.
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Despite the setback, McKinstry revealed that Omala was given time off to regroup and has since returned with renewed focus.
"Benson was undoubtedly disappointed. We gave him a few days off at the beginning of the week to clear his head. He's returned in the past couple of days, refocused and determined to excel for his team, friends, and the fans. So, we're not concerned about Benson. His opportunity will come," he concluded with optimism.
The failed deal, which would have seen Gor Mahia pocket Ksh3.2 million and Omala earning a monthly salary of Ksh1.3 million with an option for a permanent move, fell through due to stringent conditions set by JS Saoura.
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These included suspending the employment contract between Omala and Gor Mahia for the loan's duration and conditions regarding the transfer's completion, such as receipt of the Transfer Matching System (TMS) documentation and successful physical and medical assessments.
Omala's agent has since alleged that Gor Mahia FC's actions, attributed to greed and delayed paperwork, sabotaged the striker's move to JS Saoura.
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While this has been a disappointing turn of events for the player, Gor Mahia fans can find solace in knowing their leading scorer, with nine goals in the FKF Premier League so far, will remain to bolster their title aspirations for the remainder of the season.
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