Nzoia Sugar face sour times as five stars exit amid financial woes

Struggling National Super League (NSL) side, Nzoia Sugar FC, is facing a tumultuous remainder of the season, following the departure of five key first team players amid financial difficulties.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, the team's head coach, Charles Odero, confirmed the exit of five key players from the club, dealing a significant blow to the team’s quest for a spot in next season's FKF Premier League (FKF-PL).

According to Odero, goalkeeper Emase Eliud is close to joining Naivas FC, Felix Seda and Clifford Otieno have already sealed moves to Mara Sugar, while Kevin Okoth is on the verge of signing for Samwest.

Meanwhile, NSL top scorer, Ian Simiyu, is also attracting interest from several teams, including Premier League giants, Shabana FC and KCB.

The departure of the five players, who have been crucial in the club’s current state, leaves Nzoia FC in a vulnerable position to catch up with the other teams.

Odero admits that while these exits are a setback, the club has no choice but to turn to its reserve players to fill the gaps.

“Our financial situation does not allow us to bring in new signings. We will have to rely on the players we have in our ranks,” stated Odero.

Nzoia’s financial constraint puts them at a disadvantage as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

With other clubs strengthening their squads, the inability to bring in reinforcements could see Nzoia FC struggle in the upcoming campaign.

Despite the setback, Odero remains optimism that the players available can step up and maintain the club’s competitiveness.

The departure of top scorer, Ian Simiyu, should it materialize, would be a particularly tough loss, considering his goal-scoring prowess in the NSL. However, the club will be hoping that some of the younger players can rise to the occasion.

With the transfer window still open, it remains to be seen if more exits will follow.

After starting the NSL season on a wrong footing, the sugar millers have found form and are still unbeaten in the new year.

Nzoia FC is placed seventh on the NSL log with 28 points.