Ali: Nairobi United new signings to ease pressure on squad

Nairobi United are facing a challenging campaign, with involvement in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup—where they are the defending champions after edging Gor Mahia 2–1 in last season’s final.

In the league, the Naibois are pushing for a top-five finish in their debut season in the top flight, while also competing in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.

Speaking after Nairobi United’s 2–0 midweek defeat to AFC Leopards at Nyayo National Stadium, Ali, who is serving as interim head coach following the departure of Nicholas Muyoti, admitted that fixture congestion has begun to take its toll on the players.

He noted that the busy schedule, particularly due to continental football, has led to fatigue within the squad, but expressed optimism that the new recruits will ease the burden on key players.

“Naturally, the players are starting to feel the effects of a congested fixture list. The new signings will help us rotate the squad by resting some of those that we feel need some rest and this will help us maintain competitiveness across all competitions,” Salim stated.

Naibois have strengthened their squad with four additions. Attacking midfielder John Njuguna has joined as a free agent from Tusker FC, bringing valuable experience and creativity to the team’s attacking unit.

Nairobi United have also signed Roy Okal from Sofapaka FC, Rwandan left winger Hakizimana Muhadjiri from Uganda’s NEC FC, alongside Ugandan left back Mustafa Kizza, who adds depth and international experience to the defence.

“When going into the market we did not just go for anyone, but players that we needed and were sure would address the challenges we are facing in different areas. Today you have seen we have given some minutes to Okal [Roy], and from what we have seen, if given more minutes he will be of great help. So far we have signed three players."

The former Mathare United tactician admitted that the new signings need a few days to train with the team so they can learn the club’s philosophy, a process he says will be addressed before their next assignment on Sunday.

“We have three more days to train together. If we manage to get everyone [the new signings] on board in time, I believe they will be ready on Sunday to face Ulinzi Stars and they will give us an edge in the approach we are going to deploy in that match,” he said.

After 12 rounds of league matches, Nairobi United sit ninth on the Kenyan Premier League table with 19 points, though they have three matches in hand.

AFC Leopards top the table with 27 points from 15 matches, one point ahead of defending champions Gor Mahia, who have played 13 matches.