Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) has officially appointed Charles Odera as their new head coach, a decision influenced by a combination of availability, experience, and strategic alignment with the club’s ambitions.MOFA’s Technical Director, Kevin Aol, disclosed that while the club had shortlisted several experienced candidates for the role, most opted to complete their current season commitments before considering a new opportunity.Harambee Stars captain Olunga confident in Kenya’s World Cup qualifying chancesAmong those identified were Kariobangi Sharks assistant coach Edward Seda, Kisumu All Stars coach Charles Bruno, former Shabana and Migori Youth tactician Sammy Okoth, and Darajani Gogo’s Paul Ogai.However, with the mid-season timing proving a challenge for many, Odera stood out as the preferred choice, as he was willing to transition immediately from Nzoia Sugar.##NAJAVA_MECA_8790251##”We settled on Odera because, being mid-season, the other shortlisted candidates felt it was best to see their teams through to the end of the season.However, Odera was open to joining despite performing well at Nzoia Sugar, which made the decision easier for us,” Aol explained.Kenya U17 midfielder’s promise to Kenyans ahead of Cameroon clashBeyond availability, Odera’s extensive experience in the National Super League (NSL) played a crucial role in his appointment.Having managed teams such as Muhoroni Youth, APS Bomet, and Nzoia Sugar, the former Kenya international brings over six years of coaching experience at this competitive level.Gor Mahia electoral board announced ahead of April poll”Odera was among our top candidates, and given that we are competing in the NSL, we needed someone with deep knowledge of the league. His tenure at APS Bomet, Muhoroni Youth, and most recently at Nzoia Sugar, where he performed admirably despite challenges, made us confident that he is the right fit for the job,” Aol stated.##NAJAVA_MECA_8790203##Odera took charge of MOFA immediately, debuting in the South Nyanza derby, where his team staged a comeback draw against Migori Youth just two days into his tenure.His primary task will be to lead MOFA to automatic promotion to the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) in their first attempt.##NAJAVA_MECA_8790245##The Oyugis-based side secured their NSL slot at the start of the season following a merger with the now-defunct Rainbow FC.Currently, MOFA sits eighth on the table with 32 points, trailing promotion contenders Nairobi United and APS Bomet by 16 and 15 points, respectively.Why former Gor Mahia defender opted for fourth loan in Sweden in three yearsAs the season progresses, Odera will be expected to turn around the team’s fortunes and position them as serious contenders for a top-flight spot.
