Selebwa braces for Luanda Villa's tough NSL season,

Luanda Villa head coach Gilbert Selebwa has cited Muhoroni Youth and Nzoia Sugar as his biggest threat as they prepare for the National Super League in the upcoming season.

"I know Muhoroni Youth and Nzoia Sugar FC will be fighting tooth and nail to return to the Premier League," Selebwa said.

Selebwa said his priority at the moment is to elevate Luanda Villa to the Premier League at the end of the 2024/2025 NSL season.

He also cited Naivas FC, who narrowly missed promotion last season, as another formidable opponent to watch. 

"Naivas FC, who failed to qualify last season after an impressive run, are likely to bring very tough opposition having come so close to earning promotion," he added.

Selebwa, who previously coached AFC Leopards and Shabana, said he is currently working on strengthening Luanda Villa’s squad.

He is particularly excited about the return of Timothy Lumasai, who missed the second half of last season due to a knee injury.

"I’m happy Lumasai is returning after a knee injury that kept him off the pitch during the second leg of last season," he said.

However, the team will have to cope with the departure of key players such as Brian Bett, who has joined Shabana FC and goalkeeper Johnstone Alusula, now with Sofapaka FC.

They are among 13 players released ahead of the new season. Selebwa has already lined up replacements and will unveil the list soon. 

Luanda Villa will kick off their campaign early next month against Kibera Black Stars at Mumboha Sports Grounds. Villa finished in eighth with 52 points last season.