Kenya Commercial Bank Football Club (KCB FC) has appointed Patrick Odhiambo as their new head coach, replacing Bernard Mwalala. Odhiambo, who brings a wealth of experience from his stints with various clubs, including Gor Mahia and Kakamega Homeboyz, is poised to lead the team to new heights as they prepare for the 2024/25 season, set to kick off on August 24.
Strategic Squad Enhancements
Since his appointment last month, Odhiambo has hit the ground running, making calculated changes to the squad he inherited. His approach has been to maintain the core of the team while making minimal but strategic additions. So far, he has signed three new players—a striker, an attacking midfielder, and a goalkeeper. These new acquisitions are expected to bolster the squad in key areas identified by Odhiambo as needing reinforcement.
“We have made minimal changes to the team. I believe the players already in the squad were good enough to keep. We have added three new players: one offensive player, an attacking midfielder, and a goalkeeper. One more signing, an offensive player, and we will be done,” Odhiambo explained, highlighting his confidence in the existing squad while focusing on targeted improvements.
Preseason Preparations in Full Swing
Despite his relatively recent arrival, Odhiambo is optimistic about the team’s readiness for the new season. The preseason period has provided him with the opportunity to assess the team’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing for a focused training regime that aligns with his strategic goals. His main objective is to ensure that KCB FC remains competitive in what is anticipated to be a fiercely contested league season.
“I may not have been here for long, but since I arrived, we have had ample time to prepare during the current preseason. Teams are preparing well, and you can predict a very competitive campaign next season, so we have to give our best to reach where we want to go,” Odhiambo remarked, underscoring his commitment to achieving success with the team.
A Wealth of Experience at the Helm
Odhiambo’s appointment comes as KCB FC seeks to build on the foundations laid by his predecessor, Bernard Mwalala, who took a break to pursue his CAF A coaching license—a requirement set by the Football Kenya Federation for all Premier League head coaches. Odhiambo himself holds a CAF A license and has amassed considerable experience throughout his coaching career, which includes successful stints at Prisons FC, Western Stima, Muhoroni Youth, Sony Sugar, Chemilil Sugar, and Tanzania’s Biashara United.
His most notable achievement came during his tenure with Kakamega Homeboyz, where he led the team to its first silverware in the 2022/23 season by winning the FKF Cup. This accomplishment not only solidified his reputation as a capable coach but also showcased his ability to lead teams to victory.
The Road Ahead for KCB FC
As Odhiambo prepares to lead KCB FC into the new season, he faces the challenge of maintaining the team’s competitive edge while integrating new players into the squad. With his contract running until July 16, 2025, Odhiambo has ample time to implement his vision for the team, aiming to secure top honors in the Kenyan Premier League.
The upcoming season presents an opportunity for KCB FC to make a significant impact under Odhiambo’s guidance. With his experience and strategic approach, the “Lion’s Den” is set to witness a new era of football, where success is not just anticipated but meticulously planned. Fans and stakeholders alike will be keenly watching as KCB FC embarks on this promising journey under their new head coach.
