South Africa Premier Soccer League outfit Richards Bay has confirmed the acquisition of Kenyan international goalkeeper Ian Otieno from Zambia Super League side Zesco United.The move ends Otieno’s seven-year tenure in Zambia, a period that has seen the former AFC Leopards goalkeeper play for Red Arrows and Team Ya Ziko.Since his move to Zesco from Red Arrows in 2020, Otieno has been a crucial figure between the posts for the club, solidifying his reputation as one of the best netminders in the Zambian league.He won the Zambian Super League title in his debut season with the club (2020-2021).”Richards Bay Football Club is thrilled to welcome Goalkeeper Ian Otieno. His proven track record and experience in international competitions, including the CAF Confederation Cup, will be invaluable to our squad,” the club stated in their press release.𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁…✍️Richards Bay Football Club would like to welcome Goalkeeper Ian Otieno from Kenya, Otieno previously played for Zesco United in Zambia.Welcome Otieno 🤝#NatalRichBoyZ pic.twitter.com/oJ08LECSKZ— Richards Bay FC (@RichardsBayFC_) July 26, 2024 Otieno is expected to fill the gap left by Jackson Mabokgwane, who recently parted ways with the club.His experience and consistent performance make him an ideal candidate to lead the team from the back, minimizing their chances of facing another relegation scare.The 30-year-old goalkeeper has also been a regular member of the Kenya national team, contributing significantly to their triumph in a four-nation tournament in Malawi earlier this year.Harambee Stars goalkeeper set to ditch Zesco United for South African sideOtieno’s competition with former PSL goalkeepers Toaster Nsabata and Mwenya Chibwe at Zesco United has prepared him well for the high stakes of South African football.The move is essential for Richards Bay, who are strengthening their squad for the 2024–2025 season after securing a place in the top-flight league through the PSL promotion and relegation playoffs staged last month.Richards beat stiff competition from the University of Pretoria and Baroka FC to confirm their stay on the prestigious stage.The club has since roped in seven players apart from the ex-Posta Rangers custodian after securing a shirt sponsor for the upcoming season.##NAJAVA_MECA_8235043##
