Benson Omala, a former Gor Mahia striker, is facing a unique and frustrating challenge in his career after relocating to Lebanon for a new chapter in his professional football journey. Signed by Lebanese club Al-Safa, Omala hoped to fulfill his dreams of making his mark in international football and to experience life in a foreign league. However, this venture has become far from what he anticipated, as he now contends with an indefinite suspension of the Lebanese League and a complex web of contract issues.
The move to Al-Safa, which initially offered Omala an opportunity for international exposure and competitive play, came with immediate complications. Although the Kenyan forward had secured a deal with Al-Safa in August, obstacles surfaced right from the outset. His transfer from Gor Mahia hit a series of snags, delaying the process for several weeks before it was finally smoothed out in early September. Yet, as he prepared to board a flight to Lebanon and join his new team, an unexpected and dire situation unraveled. The Lebanese Football Association announced a suspension of all domestic football activities amid rising security concerns. With mounting hostilities in Lebanon, exacerbated by Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions, the league was indefinitely halted shortly after the season’s opening round of matches.
The indefinite suspension of the Lebanese League brought Omala’s plans to a grinding halt. He was left in a state of limbo, unable to debut for Al-Safa despite his eagerness and preparations for the season. As the political situation continued to deteriorate, fears of an escalating conflict meant that normal sporting activities, especially football, were unlikely to resume any time soon. Left with no immediate path forward, Omala returned to his hometown of Kisumu, where he began training with local Division Two side Manyatta United to stay fit and sharp as he considered his next move.
His return to Kenya has not been without reason. Sources close to Omala’s camp revealed that he was, in fact, contemplating terminating his contract with Al-Safa. Aside from the indefinite suspension of the league, Omala’s time with Al-Safa was marred by other troubling issues. Among these was a significant financial dispute that emerged shortly after his arrival. While his contract stipulated a signing-on fee, reports indicate that Al-Safa did not honor this part of the agreement. Omala, determined to stand his ground, decided to hold back from returning to Lebanon after an international break in September until this issue was addressed. The club eventually settled the fee, allowing Omala to resume his plans. However, before he could make his journey back, the league suspension came into effect, creating yet another barrier to his participation in Lebanese football.
Omala’s standoff with Al-Safa is indicative of the broader issues facing foreign players in regions plagued by political instability. For Omala, this experience has exposed the challenges that players from Africa or less prominent leagues often face when they venture into unfamiliar territories in search of professional advancement. The Lebanese club’s failure to honor financial commitments highlights the pitfalls that can befall players who lack strong legal and professional representation in such situations.
Compounding the uncertainty is the fact that Omala’s contract with Al-Safa was only for a year, a relatively short period in professional football. With months already lost due to administrative delays and now an ongoing league suspension, the likelihood of his fulfilling this contract in Lebanon grows increasingly slim. Sources close to Omala’s camp have expressed concerns not only over the ongoing instability but also over the lack of salary payments, adding further frustration to an already precarious situation.
The option of contract termination has emerged as one of the most viable paths forward for Omala. Despite his initial enthusiasm for playing in Lebanon, the risks associated with remaining under contract in such a volatile environment make termination a logical choice. If Al-Safa agrees to dissolve the contract, Omala will have the freedom to seek other opportunities, either within the Kenyan league or abroad.
Omala’s return to Kenya and temporary training with Manyatta United is not merely about staying fit; it represents a strategic pause as he weighs his options. Manyatta United, a local Division Two team, provides a familiar environment where Omala can maintain his form and keep his skills sharp. Yet, his ambitions undoubtedly lie elsewhere. Having twice emerged as Kenya’s top scorer with Gor Mahia, where he netted 26 goals in the 2022-23 season and an additional 19 goals in 2023-24, Omala has proven his caliber. These achievements not only brought Gor Mahia consecutive FKF Premier League titles but also underscored Omala’s readiness to challenge himself in higher-profile leagues.
However, with the Harambee Stars, Kenya’s national team, Omala’s path to international play has also encountered obstacles. Kenya’s troubled relationship with FIFA over governance issues has led to a series of suspensions, limiting the country’s presence in international tournaments. These issues have kept many Kenyan players, including Omala, from showcasing their talents on a larger stage. While his journey to Al-Safa might have been an avenue to break out of these limitations, the current suspension of the Lebanese league presents yet another setback to his aspirations for international exposure.
Looking ahead, Omala’s options are relatively clear but complex. Should his contract with Al-Safa be terminated, he may explore the possibility of joining other foreign clubs or returning to the Kenyan league where he previously excelled. Given his proven track record as a consistent goal-scorer, Omala would likely find a warm reception from many FKF Premier League teams, including Gor Mahia, if he decided to return.
Alternatively, Omala could look to broaden his horizons by exploring leagues in more stable regions, such as East Africa or even Central Europe, where players from African leagues often find opportunities. His achievements with Gor Mahia, combined with his resilience amid the challenges posed by the Lebanese league suspension, could make him an appealing prospect for clubs seeking a reliable and tenacious striker.
For now, Benson Omala remains in Kisumu, focused on maintaining his form and awaiting a resolution to his contractual status with Al-Safa. The story of his challenging move to Lebanon is a reminder of the complex realities that can face players who step into unfamiliar and sometimes unstable environments. While Omala’s journey has not followed the smooth path he had hoped for, his resilience and dedication to his craft continue to fuel his aspirations. Whether he ultimately returns to Gor Mahia, finds a new club, or embarks on another foreign venture, Omala’s journey highlights the unique challenges that African players face as they seek to establish themselves in international football.
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