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AFC Leopards faces coaching dilemma after recent draws. Candidates with diverse experience emerge.
Twelve-time Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) champions AFC Leopards find themselves in a precarious position this season, struggling to secure their first win after being held to a 1-1 draw by newcomers Shabana FC at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
The disappointing result comes on the heels of another 2-2 draw against Kenya Police FC, leaving fans in anguish. Many believe that it might be time for a change in leadership, with calls growing louder for the departure of the current head coach, Tom Juma.
Tom Juma has faced intense scrutiny from fans and critics alike due to the inconsistent performance of the team. Despite the fans' desire for change, the club administration has stood firm in support of local coaches, indicating that they might look for a local replacement if Juma were to be let go.
13:08 - 29.09.2023
FKFPKL Tactical Analysis: Why are AFC Leopards struggling to score goals from open play?
Leopards failed to find the back of the net in their opening three fixtures until the 2-2 draw against Kenya Police.
It is however too early to make any meaningful deductions on Tom Juma's reign at AFC Leopards and should be handed time to sort out the new team before the management can decide to pull the trigger with fans clearly displeased with the current results.
However, the question that looms large is, who possesses the right blend of experience, leadership, and vision to steer AFC Leopards back to their glory days?
Francis Baraza
One name that looms large on the horizon of potential successors is Francis Baraza, the immediate former coach of Kenya Police FC.
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21:45 - 23.09.2023
FKFPL: Police rescue AFC Leopards coach Tom Juma from irate mob who wanted his head
AFC Leopards coach Tom Juma, besieged by angry fans, escorted by police after disappointing draw against Kenya Police FC.
Renowned for his tactical acumen and a track record of transforming teams, Baraza's coaching journey has been nothing short of impressive.
He won the league with the now-defunct Sony Sugar back in 2006 which was their only title before the club folded.
A former Kenyan international, he was appointed as the first assistant to Harambee Stars' head coach, Francis Kimanzi, in 2011—a testament to his early recognition in coaching circles.
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During his stint at Tusker FC in 2017, Baraza earned the accolade of the Kenyan Premier League Fidelity Insurance Coach of the Month for October. This recognition came on the back of guiding the team to three consecutive victories, showcasing his ability to instill winning ways.
Baraza's coaching pedigree extends across various Kenyan clubs, including Chemelil Sugar, Muhoroni Youth, Western Stima, Sony Sugar, and Tusker FC. Notably, he also ventured into Tanzanian football, managing Biashara United and Kagera Sugar.
Zedekiah "Zico" Otieno
Another compelling candidate for the coveted position is Zedekiah "Zico" Otieno, a name synonymous with tactical brilliance and a proven coaching pedigree.
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Otieno recently parted ways with KCB FC after the club opted not to renew his contract following a season that fell short of expectations. His coaching journey includes significant roles with the Kenyan national team, Harambee Stars, as well as managing Gor Mahia, Sony Sugar, and Posta Rangers.
Zico is not merely a tactician; he is also known for nurturing talent and scouting the best players, a quality that could align well with AFC Leopards' vision. With his vast experience in both coaching and player development, Zico represents a potential catalyst for the transformation the club so desperately seeks.
Francis Kimanzi
The mention of Francis Kimanzi adds another layer of intrigue to the search for AFC Leopards' next head coach.
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09:03 - 20.09.2023
FKFPL AFC Leopards make stance on growing calls to sack head coach Tom Juma
Ingwe head coach Tom Juma has been under fan pressure following a challenging start to the season.
Currently unattached after his tenure with Wazito FC, Kimanzi is a seasoned tactician with a storied history in Kenyan football.
His coaching journey has seen him at the helm of the national team, Harambee Stars, on three separate occasions, reflecting the trust placed in his abilities.
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However, Kimanzi's journey has been marked by both highs and lows. Initially appointed as the Kenya national coach in 2008, he faced a premature exit in 2009 following disputes with football administrators.
Despite the setbacks, Kimanzi's coaching prowess has shone through in his stints with Mathare United, and Tusker FC. His experience, coupled with a hunger for redemption, makes Kimanzi a compelling candidate for AFC Leopards.
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06:06 - 18.09.2023
FKFPL Embattled Tom Juma responds to AFC Leopards' fans exit calls
At full-time, angry Ingwe fans could not hide their frustration, demanding for Juma to be sacked with continuous chants of “Juma must go” roaring all over the stadium.
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