Continuity Key for Ambitious City Stars, says CEO Korir

Nairobi City Stars is preparing for an ambitious campaign in the upcoming 2024/2025 FKF Premier League season, emphasizing the importance of squad continuity. With 22 out of the 28 players from the previous term confirmed to return, the club’s CEO, Patrick Korir, highlights the strategic decision to retain the core of the team to build on last season’s momentum.

The returning roster is a mix of players with ongoing contracts and those who have renewed their commitments. Six of these players, including goalkeeper Elvis Ochoro and center-back Wycliffe Awiko Omondi, are continuing their journey with running contracts. Ochoro enters the fifth and final year of his tenure, while Omondi and flyer Gilbert Abala move into their second year. Midfielder Vincent Owino, center-back Timothy Muganda, and left-back Rogers Wasega complete this list, each poised to contribute significantly to the team’s stability and performance.

A substantial number of players have shown their dedication to the club by renewing their contracts. Goalkeepers Edwin Mukolwe and Byron Owino are among the 16 who have recommitted. Defensive reliability is further ensured with the continued presence of fullbacks Edwin Buliba and Rowland Makati. The team captain, Calvin Masawa, is set to lead the squad for his fifteenth consecutive season since joining in 2011, showcasing an unparalleled loyalty and experience that is invaluable to the club.

Defensive midfielder Clifford Ouma will be marking his third straight season, while Elvis Noor Ojiambo extends his stay at Simba wa Nairobi into its sixth season. Both players are expected to bring consistency and leadership to the midfield. They will be joined by Brian Mzee and Abuyeka Kubasu, who are also returning to fortify the team’s midfield line-up.

In the attacking department, the club retains a strong offensive unit. Forwards Dennis Oalo, Mohammed Bajaber, Pius Omachi, Yuto Kusaba, Kelvin Etemesi, Robinson Asenwa, and Brian Mose Nyambane have all confirmed their stay. Their presence ensures that the team will continue to have a dynamic and versatile attack as they face the challenges of the new season.

However, not all players from the previous season will be continuing with City Stars. Six players have departed to explore other opportunities: flyer Samuel Kapen, defenders Dennis Wanjala and Sosthenes Idah, midfielders Newton Ochieng, Shem Odinga, and Andrew Kisilu. CEO Patrick Korir acknowledged these changes as part of the natural evolution of any team. “We are keen on continuity, hence the retention of most of the players from last season for the new one,” Korir said. He added, “Like in every team setup, it’s near impossible to keep all players. Some chose to explore other opportunities at the end of the season, and we granted them their wish.”

Korir also mentioned that while there will be minimal additions to the current squad, these newcomers have already been identified and will be announced in due course. This strategic approach underscores the club’s ambition to maintain a cohesive unit while also integrating fresh talent to enhance their competitive edge.

As the new season kicks off on 24-25 August 2024 with an away game against Kenya Police FC, Nairobi City Stars is poised to build on the foundations laid in the previous season. The emphasis on continuity, combined with selective new signings, aims to position the team as strong contenders in the FKF Premier League. With the leadership of seasoned players and the strategic vision of the club’s management, City Stars is set to make a significant impact in the 2024/2025 season.