Francis Kimanzi has stepped down from his position as Mathare United head coach, the club has announced.
According to a statement posted on the club website, the former Harambee Stars, Sofapaka and Tusker FC head coach has stepped down to focus on his duties with the national teams. He is the Kenya u23 head coach and Harambee Stars assistant coach.
The seasoned tactician returned to the Slum Boys in December 2015 after parting ways with Tusker United, it was his second spell with the side after the first one that saw him lead the team to the Kenyan Premier League title in 2008.
Kimanzi’s departure comes at a time that the club is in financial turmoil and has witnessed the departure of some key players. Cliff Nyakeya has moved to Egypt while Samuel Olwande has joined Sharks. Johnstone Omurwa and David Owino are reportedly heading out as well.
He has been replaced by his assistant Salim Ali also a former Mathare United head coach.
“Salim Ali has been promoted to the position of head coach. Ali, who has been serving as an assistant coach for the last four seasons, takes over from Francis Kimanzi who has stepped aside to focus on his position at the national football team, Harambee Stars,” read the statement from the Slum
Mathare United head coach Francis Kimanzi has resigned from his position. His assistant Salim Ali to take over the team first team duties. pic.twitter.com/6XuqZOhhrE
— Benjamin Mwaka (@BenjaminnMwaka) July 25, 2019
Mathare United coach Francis Kimanzi has resigned from his position with the club promoting assistant Salim Ali to the position of head coach.
— Stanslas Kagawa Stancy (@StanslasK26) July 25, 2019
BREAKING: Mathare United head coach Francis Kimanzi has resigned from his position. His assistant Salim Ali takes over the team #KPL pic.twitter.com/8sHmVcwKo1
— Oguda (@zaxoguda) July 25, 2019
Salim Ali appointed new Mathare United coach in place of Francis Kimanzi who stepped down. pic.twitter.com/hDhZL6PgRP
— Bonface Osano (@bonfaceosano) July 25, 2019