Gor Mahia has made a significant U-turn regarding the futures of two long-serving players, Philemon Otieno and Ernest Wendo, whose contracts had expired in December 2024. Initially, the club had decided to part ways with the duo, but after careful consideration, they have opted to offer both players six-month contract extensions, allowing them to remain with the team until the end of the 2024/25 season.
Philemon Otieno, a key figure in the Gor Mahia defense, has been with the club since 2017. He has won six league titles with the club and has been a reliable player in the squad. However, his game time has significantly reduced in recent seasons, particularly with the emergence of new talent like Ronney Onyango, who has taken the first-choice right-back spot. Despite this, Otieno’s experience and leadership in the dressing room remain invaluable, and the club has opted to extend his contract to ensure they are not left short in case of unforeseen departures. This decision is particularly important given the uncertainty surrounding Onyango’s future at the club. Onyango had been linked with a move to Tanzanian club Singida Black Stars, but the transfer fell through after the player rejected the move, despite part of the transfer fee being paid. With Onyango’s contract set to expire in six months, Gor Mahia wants to ensure that they have adequate cover in the right-back position in case the Tanzanian defender departs either this month or at the end of the season.
Ernest Wendo, a midfielder who has been with Gor Mahia since 2015, is another player who was initially set to leave the club. Wendo has been an integral part of the team’s midfield over the years, winning seven league titles with the club. His work ethic and ability to break up opposition attacks have made him a fan favorite. Although his playing time has diminished in recent seasons, Wendo’s experience and leadership qualities remain crucial for the team, especially as they aim to defend their league title. The club has decided to retain Wendo for the remainder of the season to add depth to the midfield, where competition for spots is high. His presence will provide a steadying influence in the middle of the park, particularly in the latter stages of the season when fatigue and injuries often take a toll on players.
Both Otieno and Wendo are among the longest-serving players at Gor Mahia, and their departure would have been a significant blow to the club’s squad depth and overall morale. Despite their reduced game time, their experience and knowledge of the club’s culture are invaluable assets that can help guide the younger players through challenging moments. The decision to extend their contracts reflects the club’s desire to maintain a balance of experience and youth in the squad as they look to continue their dominance in Kenyan football.
The contract extensions also come at a time when Gor Mahia is undergoing a squad shake-up, with several players being released or transferred. The club is focused on strengthening its squad for the remainder of the season, and retaining Otieno and Wendo will ensure that the team is well-equipped to face the challenges ahead. With the league title defense and other competitions on the horizon, the club’s management believes that the experience and leadership of these two players will be essential in achieving their goals.
