Shabana to beef up squad by signing seven more players ahead of 2025/26 season

Club secretary general, Elizaphan Kerama, confirmed that more than 10 players will be released following the expiry of their contracts. Speaking on Wednesday, Kerama said they will only reinforce areas where they identified weaknesses in the 2024/25 season.

“We were not 100 per cent last season. There are areas we need to reinforce ahead of next season. We need to conclude the transfer business before we start our pre-season in one week,” said Kerama. He spoke after the club announced their first signing, defensive midfielder Biron Otieno from Kariobangi Sharks.

Shabana beat giants Gor Mahia and newly promoted Nairobi United for his signature. Otieno signed a two-year contract with the Kisii-based side. He added that Shabana will challenge for the FKF Premier League title next season. “Last season, we achieved our target of finishing top five. Next season, with proper pre-season and signings, we can challenge for the title,” said Kerama.

He said he was excited about the signing of Otieno, who is popularly known as N'Golo Kante. “Biron is a player I have been following for a long time. He fits our playing style and will help us achieve our targets,” he remarked. The SG added: “He has confirmed that he is coming to Shabana to win trophies. He is a player with a winning mentality.”

Speaking after putting pen to paper, Otieno said: “I thank God for the chance to play for Shabana. I love the club and the way its loyal fans push the team. I promise to give my all and help the club win silverware next season.”

He will be reunited with his former teammate Keith Imbali, who joined Tore Bobe in the midseason transfer window. He added, “I’m happy to be reunited with my former teammate Keith. He is like my brother. Playing with Justine Omwando in the Shabana midfield will be great.”