The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Engin Firat has resigned as head coach of Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, just two months before the 2024 CHAN, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The reason behind his resignation remains unclear.
New FKF president Mohammed Hussein confirmed Firat’s resignation in a press conference on Wednesday and stated that the process to find a replacement would begin immediately to prepare for the upcoming busy schedule.
Firat’s coaching staff included Kariobangi Sharks head coach William Muluya, Bandari’s Ken Odhiambo, and Bandari goalkeeping coach, who also served with the national team.
Since taking charge in 2021, Firat led the team in 23 matches, securing seven wins, seven draws, and nine losses. Under his leadership, Kenya played notable international friendlies, including a 2-1 win over Qatar and a 2-2 draw with Russia. However, his tenure was marred by failing to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, with Kenya finishing third in their group and losing 3-1 on aggregate to South Sudan in the CHAN 2025 qualifiers. Kenya only gained participation in the tournament due to their status as hosts.
Firat’s methods, including his tactics and player selection, sparked both supporters and critics. He cited insufficient local support and the lack of home stadiums as reasons for the team’s poor results in the AFCON qualifiers. At the time of his resignation, Kenya was ranked 106th in the latest FIFA rankings.
Francis Kimanzi, former Harambee Stars coach and recently departed from Tanzania’s Tabora United, has been linked to the position.
Looking ahead, the Harambee Stars are set to participate in the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar in January. Uganda, Burundi, Burkina Faso, and Tanzanian clubs Zanzibar Heroes and Kilimanjaro Stars will also compete. The tournament presents an important opportunity for Kenya to prepare for the 2025 CHAN, which begins on February 1 and will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
