Sofapaka FC President Elly Kalekwa has acknowledged that they may lose head coach Robert Matano to Tanzania’s Coastal Union, just three months after he joined the club following his departure from Tusker FC.Matano, who has overseen Sofapaka’s first four matches of the season without a win—three losses and one draw—could leave the team struggling in the FKF Premier League standings.##NAJAVA_MECA_8388905##Speculation about Matano’s potential move to Coastal Union intensified last week, with reports suggesting that he was being eyed to replace Kenyan coach David Ouma, who was dismissed by the Tanzanian club last month.Although Matano denied the rumours, Kalekwa confirmed that discussions between the coach and Coastal Union have taken place, and the club is aware of the situation. Kalekwa expressed openness to Matano’s possible departure.”Coastal Union approached Robert (Matano) and invited him for negotiations. They’ve been after him for quite some time now, and I’m not one to stand in the way of someone looking to advance their career,” Kalekwa told Flashscore.Public outcry as Sports Ministry’s consultancy budget runs into millionsThe Sofapaka president added that Matano had travelled to Tanzania for discussions and was awaiting a final decision on whether he would move or stay with the team he led to its only league title in 2009.”I’m waiting for Matano to return and update us on the outcome of the talks. I have no issue releasing him if Coastal Union offers him a contract, but as of now, negotiations are ongoing, and nothing has been finalized,” Kalekwa explained.”Matano informed us of his trip to Tanzania, so it’s no big deal. In football, people move around often. If they reach an agreement, I’m more than willing to give him his release letter.”Regarding who would take over if Matano leaves, Kalekwa clarified that Sofapaka will only start considering replacements once the coach’s exit is confirmed.”I don’t think they’ve signed him yet. Until that happens, we can’t talk about replacements. For now, Matano remains the Sofapaka coach. He signed a one-year contract with us before the season started, so unless Coastal Union secures him, he’s still ours.”Sofapaka’s next match after the international break will be against Nairobi City Stars.Huge boost for Harambee Stars as defender returns ahead Cameroon clash
