Newly recruited Shabana FC goalkeeper Bixinte Otieno/HANDOUT
Shabana FC have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2026/27 FKF Premier League season after completing the signing of highly rated goalkeeper Bixente Otieno on a free transfer from Posta Rangers.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper has put pen to paper on a long-term contract after his deal with Posta Rangers expired, bringing an end to weeks of speculation linking him with several top-flight clubs.
His arrival addresses one of Shabana's priority positions as the Glamour Boys continue rebuilding under new Egyptian head coach Ahmed Fathi, whose tactical philosophy places heavy emphasis on disciplined defending and ball-playing goalkeepers.
"Joining Shabana is a dream move for me because this is a massive club with the best fanbase in the country," Bixente said during his unveiling.
The shot-stopper joins the Kisii-based side after an outstanding campaign with Posta Rangers, where he established himself as one of the SportPesa League's standout goalkeepers.
He kept 10 clean sheets in just 17 league appearances, attracting interest from several clubs before Shabana won the race for his signature.
"I wanted a fresh challenge where my performances could directly impact a passionate community," he said.
Club officials fended off strong competition, particularly from Kakamega Homeboyz, before convincing the goalkeeper to commit his future to the Gusii-based club.
The transfer signals Shabana's growing ambition after a fifth-place finish last season, with the management determined to build a squad capable of challenging for domestic honours.
"The negotiation process was very smooth because the management showed me a clear plan for the future," Bixente added.
His signing also represents another key piece in coach Fakhri's rebuilding project, which has already seen significant changes to both the technical bench and playing squad.
The Egyptian tactician is expected to deploy an aggressive defensive structure that requires goalkeepers who are comfortable sweeping behind a high defensive line while remaining composed in possession.
"I have already spoken with the new coach about his tactical vision, and it perfectly matches how I like to play," the goalkeeper said.
Although standing at 169 centimetres, Bixente has built his reputation on exceptional reflexes, intelligent positioning and quick anticipation rather than physical stature.
His development began with the Kenya Under-18 national team before spells at Wazito FC, KCB and, eventually, Posta Rangers helped sharpen his decision-making under pressure.
"My experiences with the youth national team and my previous clubs taught me how to stay focused for the full 90 minutes," he said.
The goalkeeper now faces the immediate challenge of earning the trust of supporters while establishing himself as Shabana's first-choice goalkeeper.
Expectations remain high, especially after his impressive clean-sheet record made him one of the league's most consistent performers last season.
"I know the expectations are incredibly high here, but pressure is what pushes a player to become great," Bixente said.
News of his arrival has already generated excitement among the club's supporters, many of whom believe he could provide the defensive stability needed for a sustained title challenge.
Fans hope his calm distribution, command of the penalty area and confident communication will reduce the costly defensive lapses that affected the team during crucial matches last season.
"I cannot wait to play my first match in front of our fans and feed off their energy from the stands," he said.
Attention now shifts to pre-season preparations, where Bixente will work closely with his new defensive teammates as Shabana build cohesion ahead of the new campaign.
The Glamour Boys are expected to play several friendly matches before the SportPesa League season kicks off, giving the goalkeeper an opportunity to settle into Fathi's tactical system.
"Our main goal right now is to work hard during pre-season so we can challenge for the league title from day one," Bixente concluded.
