Livingstone Mbabazi: Why Ankole Lions are betting on experience for survival

Charles Livingstone Mbabazi. IMAGE/ Vipers

Livingstone Mbabazi: Why Ankole Lions are betting on experience for survival

Festus Chuma 11:39 - 06.02.2025

Uganda Premier League side Mbarara City has retained head coach Livingstone Mbabazi, backing him to steer the Ankole Lions away from relegation.

Mbarara City head coach Charles Livingstone Mbabazi has chosen to remain at the helm of the Ankole Lions for the second half of the 2024/25 Uganda Premier League season.

Despite rumors suggesting his imminent departure, the club has now confirmed that Mbabazi will continue leading the team. 

According to Swift Sports Uganda, the tactician has the full backing of the club’s hierarchy.

“Mbabazi has decided to remain at the helms of the Ankole Lions for the forthcoming second round of the 2024/25 campaign,” the publication reported.

With the confirmation of his stay, Mbabazi’s immediate task is to ensure that Mbarara City improves its league standing and avoids the relegation battle. 

The Ankole Lions wrapped up the first half of the season with 17 points from 15 matches, positioning themselves in a precarious situation that demands immediate improvements.

Mbarara City’s second-round campaign will kick off with a crucial away fixture against Mbale Heroes FC on Thursday, February 13. 

Beyond their league commitments, Mbarara City remains in contention for silverware in the Stanbic Uganda Cup. 

The club recently progressed to the Round of 32 after edging out Junior Eagles in a tense penalty shootout. Success in the domestic cup could provide a much-needed morale boost for the squad and its supporters.

Mbabazi, who rejoined Mbarara City at the start of the season, is no stranger to the club, having previously coached the team in the 2018-19 and 2021 seasons.

 His familiarity with the squad, the club’s culture, and its fanbase played a significant role in his decision to continue in the role.

His return was necessitated by the departure of Wasswa Bbosa, who left at the end of the 2023/24 season after a one-year tenure. 

Under Bbosa, Mbarara City endured an inconsistent run, prompting the club to turn to Mbabazi once again in hopes of revitalizing their campaign.

However, Mbabazi himself has endured a turbulent managerial journey in recent times. His last stint at Vipers SC ended prematurely after he was relieved of his duties before completing the season. 

Now back at Mbarara City, he has a chance to restore his reputation and steer the club toward stability.

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