Gor Mahia are gearing up for a pivotal coaching decision as they intensify their search for a permanent head coach.
Gor Mahia having a local coach feels like cheating for a club steeped in tradition and known for its penchant for hiring foreign tacticians.
The club’s search for a new head coach has entered high gear with at least two applications arriving daily, primarily from Europe.
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While interim coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno has steadied the ship with two consecutive wins, his chances of securing the role on a permanent basis remain minimal.
“Gor Mahia needs an experienced coach who can independently identify the best players for the team, especially those who represent their national teams,” club chairman Ambrose Rachier stated as per Citizen.
Otieno’s credentials, however, are not in question.
A respected figure in Kenyan football, Zico boasts a wealth of experience, having managed clubs like Sony Sugar, Posta Rangers, Sofapaka and KCB, where he guided the team to a respectable fifth-place finish last season.
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He has also served as Harambee Stars head coach in 2011 and as an assistant coach in 2019.
Despite his track record, Gor Mahia’s historical bias towards foreign coaches appears to be a significant hurdle for his candidacy.
Rachier acknowledged this preference, explaining the club’s approach to selecting its next coach.
“We’ve had coaches from different parts of the world, and we understand how they approach club management. We’ll conduct thorough vetting to select a coach who aligns with our vision," he added.
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The interim coach has done well in his short stint, leading Gor Mahia to two convincing 2-0 victories against Kakamega Homeboyz and Mara Sugar.
However, these results may not be enough to sway a club intent on maintaining its legacy of attracting high-profile talent from beyond Kenyan borders.
According to insiders, Gor Mahia’s management is committed to hiring an international coach with the expertise and network to scout top talent, including players who feature for their national teams across Africa.
“We’ve been receiving a steady stream of applications, with at least two hitting our inbox daily,” Rachier revealed.
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He emphasized that the club would take its time to ensure the best candidate is chosen, given the high stakes involved in maintaining Gor Mahia’s dominance in Kenyan football and pursuing success on the continental stage.
The decision to look externally also stems from the underwhelming tenure of Zico’s predecessor, Brazilian coach Martins Leonardo Neiva.
Neiva left the club after just six league matches, with results falling short of expectations.
This experience has reinforced the need for a meticulous selection process, with the club keen to avoid another misstep.
While Zico remains a stabilizing force, his local roots appear to work against him in a club environment that values international pedigree.
For a team that has previously engaged coaches from Europe, South America, and other regions, the next hire must bring a blend of experience, tactical prowessand the ability to identify talent across borders.