Isabirye on Vipers’ championship-winning formula last season and his future at the club

Former Vipers coach Alex Isabirye posing with the Stanbic Uganda Cup trophy (L) and the StarTimes Uganda Cup trophy (L)

FOOTBALL Isabirye on Vipers’ championship-winning formula last season and his future at the club

Peter Tabu • 10:28 - 07.07.2023

The former Uganda Cranes international, who was roped in to replace Spanish head coach Beto Bianchi in March 2023, inherited a struggling squad that had gone two months without a win and nine games without scoring.

Every winning team has a formula they rely on to dominate, and Vipers aren’t any different, at least going by what head coach Alex Isabirye shared.

The former Uganda Cranes international, who was roped in to replace Spanish head coach Beto Bianchi in March 2023, inherited a struggling squad that had gone two months without a win and nine games without scoring.

Alex Isabirye (left) receiving his coach of the season award from Pilsner CEO Andrew Kilonzo (right) at the ceremony on Thursday.

Isabirye says it was a daunting task from the start, but a few things had to change for the club to achieve what it attained.

“It was tough at the start, I had so many doubters, but I knew I needed to create a difference,” Isabirye told Pulse Sports.

“I inherited a good and talented team, but it lacked attitude, character and confidence in scoring.”

“I ensured I got into the players’ minds and asked them to believe in me, I am grateful it worked out, and that’s why we are here to be feted.”

The former URA and BUL FC tactician added: “I am happy and grateful to God; I know he has been there for us; I also want to thank the coaches, players and the president for the enormous support which helped us achieve all of this.”

Isabirye’s future

The 47-year-old, who led the Vipers to their first-ever domestic league double, has been a subject of speculation regarding his future at the club, with many indicating that he was on his way out of Kitende for another foreign manager.

However, Isabirye has rubbished the talk and insisted he is busy with the team’s preparations ahead of the new season. He adds that the team will need reinforcements for a better show on the continent.

“I have never talked to anyone about when I am leaving the club, I have a two-year contract, and I am busy preparing my players.”

“I also know people expect a lot this coming season, so we shall sit with management and set targets.”

“We hope to reinforce the team more, even in the technical area, to compete better on the continent,” he added.

The Venoms, who reached the CAF Champions League group stages for the first time last season, only managed two points in as many games and will hope to perform better when they return to the continent.

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