Gor Mahia intensifies search for experienced head coach

Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier has outlined the key qualifications for the club’s next head coach, emphasizing the need for a competent individual capable of identifying top talent, including players who feature for their national teams across Africa.

Rachier assured fans that the club’s management will not interfere with the coach’s decisions regarding player selection, focusing instead on facilitating the signing of players identified by the new coach.

“Gor Mahia needs an experienced coach who can independently identify the best players for the team, especially those who represent their national teams,” Rachier stated.

The search for a new coach has gained momentum, with the club receiving at least two applications daily, primarily from Europe. However, Rachier noted that the selection process will take time to ensure the best candidate is chosen.

“We’ve been receiving a steady stream of applications, with at least two hitting our inbox daily,” he added.

Gor Mahia is seeking a permanent replacement for Brazilian coach Martins Leonardo Neiva, who left the club after managing just six league matches, during which results failed to meet the club’s high expectations.

In the interim, Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno has taken charge, guiding the team to two consecutive victories; a 2-0 win over Kakamega Homeboyz and another 2-0 triumph against Mara Sugar.

Despite these results, Zico’s chances of securing the role permanently appear slim, as Gor Mahia traditionally prefers foreign coaches over locals.

Rachier acknowledged the club’s history of hiring coaches from various regions, stating that a rigorous vetting process will be conducted to find the most suitable candidate for the record Kenyan champions.

“We’ve had coaches from different parts of the world, and we understand how they approach club management. We’ll conduct thorough vetting to select a coach who aligns with our vision,” Rachier concluded.

As Gor Mahia continues its search, the club remains focused on maintaining its dominance in Kenyan football and achieving success on the continental stage.