The transfer window has officially opened for Kenyan clubs to strengthen their squads for the second leg of the season. However, AFC Leopards will once again be inactive as they continue to serve a two-window ban imposed by Fifa last year.
The ban was issued due to the club’s inability to clear debts owed to former players.
Despite this setback, AFC Leopards registered four players, including John Makwata, Cliff Nyakeya, Victor Omune, and Josephat Lopaga in January last year, but they had to wait to be cleared. These players were acquired to stabilize the team, but the ban has limited their ability to make any additional signings.
The team has been relying on their academy players who have been competitive, but they urgently need to reinforce their attack. AFC Leopards has created chances in many games, but they have lacked the right mentality to convert those chances into goals.
The local giants started the season in an awkward situation after a mass exodus at the club ahead of the new season. However, they have managed to remain among the title contenders, challenging the likes of defending league champions Tusker and 19-time league winners Gor Mahia.
To remain competitive, AFC Leopards needs to clear their debts to former players and avoid future bans. This will enable them to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) should also prioritize clearing players such as Ronny Shichenje, Emmanuel Lwangu, Victor Otieno, Abubakar Musha, Nesta Olum, and Loren James. This will enable AFC Leopards to have a stronger squad in the future.
