Rooney Onyango's surprise omission from Gor Mahia's squad for the CAF Champions League clash has raised questions ahead of the crucial match.
Gor Mahia defender Rooney Onyango has raised eyebrows with his unexpected omission from the squad set to depart on Thursday afternoon for the CAF Champions League preliminary round against South Sudanese giants, Al Merreikh Bentiu.
The absence of the promising defender has sparked widespread speculation with the latest reports suggesting that Onyango is on the verge of a move to an Italian club.
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Sources close to the club reveal that the transfer has been in the works for some time but complications regarding the player's visa application have slowed down the process.
"Rooney has been in discussions with an Italian outfit, and while all parties are keen to finalise the move, the visa process has caused an unforeseen delay," a source within the club disclosed.
This development comes at a crucial time for Gor Mahia as they prepare to kick off their 2024/25 CAF Champions League campaign.
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Onyango's absence, coupled with the departure of last season’s top scorer Benson Omala, who recently signed with Lebanese side Safa Sports, leaves the team without two of its key players.
Omala's exit was expected, but Onyango's sudden omission has caught fans and analysts alike by surprise.
The return of Austin Odhiambo to the team after resuming training has provided some relief but the omission of experienced goalkeeper Gad Mathews has also raised further questions about his future.
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The squad includes January signings Levin Odhiambo and new recruit Gedeon Bendeka both of whom are eager to make their competitive debuts.
Enock Morrison also features in the traveling party, adding depth to the squad as they prepare for what promises to be a tough test against Al Merreikh Bentiu.
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Should the transfer materialize Onyango would join a growing list of Kenyan players making a name for themselves abroad.
However, the immediate concern for Gor Mahia is their upcoming fixture.
The match against Al Merreikh Bentiu is scheduled for Sunday, August 18 and the team is expected to arrive in South Sudan on Thursday evening.
The two-legged tie represents a critical stage in their quest for continental glory with a potential clash against defending champions Al Ahly awaiting them in the next round.
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Gor Mahia travelling squad to South Sudan
Goalkeepers: Kevin Omondi, Caleb Omondi and Dolph Junior
Defenders: Philemon Otieno, Paul Ochuoga, Geoffrey Ochieng, Levin Odhiambo, Joshua Onyango, Sylvester Owino, Kennedy Onyango, Alphonce Omija
Midfielders: Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Lawrence Juma, Eodgers Ouma, Chris Akena, Enock Morrison
Forwards: Gedeon Bendeka, Christopher Ochieng, Samuel Kapen, Sharif Musa, Bonface Omondi