Tusker FC, the 12-time FKF Premier League champions, is gearing up for the upcoming 2024/25 FKF Premier League season with a wave of new signings and fresh kit designs. In a bid to strengthen its squad and enhance its competitive edge both domestically and internationally, the club has brought in a mix of experienced players and promising young talents.
Defensive Reinforcements
To bolster their backline, Tusker FC has secured the services of Alex Onchwari and Dennis Wanjala. Alex Onchwari, a 24-year-old defender, has had a diverse career journey across multiple clubs including Ololulung’a FC, Zoo Kericho, Horsed FC in Somalia, and Muhoroni Youth. His extensive experience is expected to add stability to Tusker’s defense. Alongside him, 25-year-old Dennis Wanjala, known for his solidity as a left-back during his time at Nzoia Sugar and City Stars, joins the team, promising to strengthen the defensive flanks.
Midfield Mastery
In the midfield, the Brewers have added versatility and creativity by signing Yussuf Nassir Mainge and Ryan Ogam. Yussuf Nassir Mainge, a 24-year-old midfielder, has sharpened his skills at FC Pohronie in Slovakia and has also played for prominent Kenyan clubs such as AFC Leopards, Gor Mahia, and Kenya Police FC. His experience and playmaking abilities are anticipated to play a crucial role in Tusker’s midfield dynamics. Adding to the midfield’s depth, 19-year-old Ryan Ogam, who has previously played for Sunrise FC and Rainbow FC, is seen as a budding talent capable of injecting creativity and energy into the team’s play.
The club has also promoted Teddy Dok Onyango from the Tusker FC youth system to the senior team. As a homegrown talent, Teddy is set to provide additional options in midfield and aims to make a significant impact in the senior squad.
Offensive Firepower
Tusker FC’s attack has been significantly bolstered with the acquisition of seasoned striker Boban Zirintusa and a trio of young forwards. Boban Zirintusa, a 32-year-old with an impressive record in various African leagues, brings a wealth of experience from his stints at Polokwane City, Ethiopia Coffee, Vipers FC, Express FC, Busoga FC, Mtibwa Sugar, and Biashara United. His proven goal-scoring ability is expected to be a valuable asset for Tusker FC’s quest for trophies.
Joining Zirintusa in the attacking lineup are the talented Jacob Onyango, a promising 20-year-old from Sofapaka, and Eric Naaman Balecho, a 23-year-old winger who has shown his prowess at Cheza Sports Academy, Mount Kenya University FC, and Murang’a Seal. Thomas Omole, another young striker from Chipolopolo FC and Vihiga Bullets, completes the club’s forward acquisitions, providing the team with a blend of speed, skill, and youth.
Goalkeeping Fortification
To round out the squad, Tusker FC has strengthened its goalkeeping department by signing 27-year-old Joseph Ochuka. With experience from Kariobangi Sharks, KCB, and Bandari FC, Ochuka is expected to be a key figure between the posts, ensuring the team’s defense remains resolute.
New Kits and Commitment to Creativity
In addition to unveiling their new signings, Tusker FC has introduced new training and playing kits designed by local fashion designer Michael Ngwei and manufactured by global sports apparel giant Umbro. Mark Ocitti, the Managing Director of Kenya Breweries Limited, highlighted the significance of the new kits, emphasizing the club’s commitment to supporting local talent and promoting Kenyan creativity on a national and international scale.
Preparations and Outlook
The club’s recent pre-season tour in Uganda, featuring matches against Bright Stars FC, Kitara FC, and Lugazi FC, provided a valuable opportunity for the new signings to integrate with the squad and for the coaching staff to assess the team’s progress. Interim Head Coach Charles Okere expressed his excitement about the squad’s new look and emphasized the importance of team cohesion and tactical fine-tuning ahead of the season.
With a rejuvenated squad and a fresh kit, Tusker FC is poised to make a strong statement in the upcoming FKF Premier League season as they aim to reclaim their title and compete at the highest level in both local and continental competitions.
