Newly-appointed Sofapaka head coach Francis Haringingo is keen to take to club back to the top.
Sofapaka have been languishing in mid-table since 2009, when they won their only Kenyan Premier League title. Batoto Ba Mungu finished 10th last season.
Haringingo was speaking when the club unveiled their new signing at Marist Grounds, Karen on Wednesday.
The Burundian replaces David Ouma, who has been promoted to Sporting Director.
“I have been silently watching the team in training and I am impressed by the talent here. We can make a formidable side if we make use of this talent. Hard work counts,” said Haringingo, who will be assisted by compatriot Pablo Nduwimana.
Haringingo added he's determined to leave a mark at the club.
“I'm happy to be at Sofapaka as the new coach. I have heard a lot of brilliant stories about this team and it's every coach's dream to be associated with a brilliant club like this," said Haringingo.
He guided Rwandese side Rayon Sports to their maiden Peace Cup title in seven years in June and has also coached Kiyovu, Mukura, Messager and Vital'O.
Meanwhile, Burundian international Fiston Abdul Razak has returned to the club after signing for South Africa giants Mamelodi Sundowns in a record Sh37 million deal seven years ago.
Razak, who has previously been feted as the best locally-based African player is among 17 new faces unveiled by club president Elly Kalekwa.
“It feels good to be back at Sofapaka after seven years. This team is like a family. It's where I honed my skills. I could never forget them. It's an honour to be back... to help them win local trophies and qualify for Africa Champions League next season,” Razak said.
“After gaining vast experience in several top leagues, I feel this is the right time to offer my experience and skills to steer Sofapaka back to their glory days.”
In addition to Sundowns, he has also had stints with Bloemfontein Celtic, Al-Zawraa (Iraq), JS Kabylie (Algeria), ENPPI SC (Egypt), Yanga (Tanzania) and Olympique Club de Khouribga of Morocco.
Former Mathare United striker Daniel 'Van Persie' Otieno, Bandari forward Darius Msaga, former Mathare United captain Khalid Jumaan, talented winger Oliver Maloba (Nairobi City Stars) and veteran striker John 'Softy' Ndirangu have also joined.
Sofapaka are scheduled to kick off the new KPL season against champions Gor Mahia on August 26.
