Offensive midfielder Tyson Otieno says he is delighted after leaving Mathare United and penning a long-term deal with Wazito ahead of the new Football Kenya Federation Premier League kick-off this weekend.
Otieno, 24, joins the moneybags after helping Mathare United survive relegation by a whisker in the just concluded season where they ranked 15th to evade the playoffs as well.
“I am excited to join Wazito FC because it’s a big, ambitious team. Joining the team was an easy decision to make because I have worked with coach (Francis) Kimanzi before," said Otieno.
At Wazito, Otieno will link up with head coach Kimanzi, who introduced him to the fundamentals of the game as he honed his skills during his formative years at the famed Mathare United academy.
"He introduced me to top-flight football, taught me many things and I enjoyed working with him. I am here to compete and give my best and help the team perform well,” said Otieno.
Otieno has been brought in to plug the hole left by Boniface Omondi, who rejoined his former side, Gor Mahia after a lackadaisical season with Wazito.
“We are pleased to announce the signing of Tyson Otieno from Mathare United on a long-term deal. The dribbling monster is expected to beef up our attacking midfield area and thereby giving our head coach more options," Wazito said on their official portal.
Other than Kimanzi, Otieno will also feel at home in the company of former teammate at Mathare, James Kinyanjui, who also joined the side on a long-term deal.
Other than Mathare, the speedy winger previously played for Thika United.
“I am happy to be here and I already feel at home because the atmosphere is good. I have also met old friends and I can say that I have already settled in. Wazito is a team with big plans and joining the team was an easy and logical decision, I also get the opportunity to work with coach Kimanzi again and I cannot wait to get started,” he said.
Wazito chief executive officer Dennis Gicheru hailed Kinyanjui as a good player who proved his worth during his time with Mathare United.
"He is also a player who has worked with our coach before and that makes things easier. He brings quality to the team. I want to officially welcome him to the team and urge him to give his best in our colors,” observed Gicheru.
Wazito kick off their 2021/2022 top-tier campaign against debutants Talanta on September 25 at Moi Stadium, Kasarani.
