Nairobi United turn to Patrick Aussems in bold title push plan

Coach Patrick Aussems/HANDOUT 

Newly promoted Kenyan Premier League side Nairobi United FC have moved swiftly to reshape their technical bench ahead of the 2026/27 season, with experienced Belgian tactician Patrick Aussems emerging as the leading candidate to take over the reins following the departure of Godfrey “Solo” Oduor.

A source within the club confirmed that discussions with the former AFC Leopards SC and Simba SC coach have already reached an advanced stage, although final paperwork is yet to be concluded.

“We have opened talks and agreed on terms, but he is yet to sign a contract,” the source said. The development comes after Nairobi United wrapped up a highly impressive debut top-flight campaign, finishing fourth in the league and earning widespread praise for their tactical discipline and attacking identity.

Behind the scenes, however, the club’s leadership has been working on a long-term restructuring plan aimed at pushing the “Naibois” from surprise contenders to genuine title challengers. The same source confirmed that the decision to part ways with Oduor was mutually understood at the end of the season.

“Yes, it is true Oduor has left his role at the club as head coach. We had only signed him until the end of the season, and the season is already over,” the source said. Despite the managerial exit, the club is open to continuity within the technical bench depending on Aussems’ final structure once he officially takes charge.

Nairobi United’s hierarchy is reportedly keen on blending continuity with elite experience as they prepare for both domestic and continental competition following their FKF Cup success.

“Oduor might still be part of the technical bench next season if Aussems expresses interest in working with him and if he (Oduor) feels comfortable with such an arrangement,” the source said.

The potential arrival of Aussems has already generated excitement within the Nairobi United camp, with the Belgian coach widely respected in East Africa for his tactical organisation, pressing systems, and ability to build competitive squads in short timeframes.

If confirmed, it would mark a return to Kenyan football for a coach who previously managed AFC Leopards SC and earned admiration for modernising their playing style despite mixed results on the pitch.

The club’s recent rise has been backed by strong administrative investment and an ambition-driven project that has seen Nairobi United evolve rapidly since their promotion, including a historic CAF Confederation Cup appearance that exposed the squad to continental football intensity.

Godfrey Oduor’s departure, though expected, marks the end of a short but significant chapter in which he helped stabilise the side in their first top-flight season and guided them to several statement victories against established Premier League opposition.

“Yes, it is true Oduor has left his role at the club as head coach. We had only signed him until the end of the season, and the season is already over,” the source said.

Attention has now shifted fully toward finalising the appointment of a high-profile manager who can elevate Nairobi United’s tactical ceiling ahead of a demanding campaign that will include both league and cup commitments.

The same insider emphasised that flexibility remains part of the club’s planning as discussions continue with all parties involved: “Oduor might still be part of the technical bench next season if Aussems expresses interest in working with him and if he (Oduor) feels comfortable with such an arrangement,” the source said.

As Nairobi United FC await the final green light on Aussems’ appointment, the mood around the club remains one of cautious optimism, with supporters eager to see whether the ambitious project can now translate promise into silverware in the seasons ahead.