Gor Mahia right-back Ronney Onyango is set to return to Norway following the conclusion of the March FIFA International break. The dynamic defender has been undergoing trials with second-tier club Sogndal Football and will miss the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby against AFC Leopards on March 30.
Gor Mahia’s Vice Chairman confirmed that Onyango is scheduled to return to Europe during the week to complete his month-long trial program. He emphasized that while Onyango is free to pursue opportunities abroad, the club is open to welcoming him back should he not secure a contract with the Norwegian side.
There had been hope that the defender would be available for the crucial derby at Nyayo Stadium, but that possibility has now been ruled out. Onyango recently played full minutes in Kenya’s two 2026 World Cup qualifier matches. He featured in the entire 90 minutes against The Gambia in Abidjan, where the match ended in a 3-3 draw, and also played the full game in the 2-1 loss to Gabon in Nairobi. His consistency and fitness have made him a key figure for both club and country.
The 23-year-old was previously close to joining Tanzanian side Singida Black Stars in January, but the move did not materialize. Despite his temporary absence, Gor Mahia have several options to fill his position in the upcoming derby and the remainder of the season. Coach Sinica Mihic has the luxury of selecting from Paul Ochuoga and Philemon Otieno, both of whom are vying for the right-back role.
Currently, Gor Mahia sits third in the 18-team league standings with 42 points, just three points behind leaders Kenya Police, while also having a game in hand. The team is aiming to reclaim the top spot as they chase a third consecutive league title. Having already won the league a record 21 times, Gor Mahia remains determined to extend their dominance in Kenyan football.
The upcoming Mashemeji Derby is expected to be a high-stakes encounter, with Gor Mahia looking to maintain their title charge despite Onyango’s absence. With experienced players stepping up and competition for starting positions intensifying, the team remains confident of securing a positive result against their arch-rivals, AFC Leopards.
