National Super League (NSL) outfit Luanda Villa has narrowed its search for a new coach to three candidates, with an announcement expected before the league resumes in the second week of January 2025.The coaching position became vacant following the resignation of veteran coach Gilbert Selebwa, who left to join FKF Division One side Harvest of Hope (HOHA).Selebwa, who joined Luanda Villa during the 2023/2024 NSL season, guided the team to an eighth-place finish.##NAJAVA_MECA_8591190##Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Villa chairman Moses Abwenje revealed that the club had received numerous applications from both local and international coaches but has since shortlisted three candidates.“Since the news broke that our head coach was leaving, we’ve received applications from coaches, some from Kenya and others from Uganda and Tanzania,” Abwenje said.Mozzart Sport understands that former Harambee Stars assistant coach Leonard Angote Saleh, Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) coach Alfred Chole, and former AFC Leopards striker Francis Chinjili are the leading contenders to replace Selebwa.Saleh, the frontrunner, boasts extensive experience from coaching in the top tier, nationwide leagues, and national teams.AFC Leopards reveal gate collection revenue from clash against BandariHe has previously managed KCB in the Premier League, Western Stima, Agro Chemicals, and Kenya’s U-20 team.His impressive track record, particularly with young players, makes him a strong candidate for the role.Chole, a former Oserian Fanatics striker, is in his first season in the second tier but earned recognition for promoting APS Bomet back to the Super League last term.Chinjili, meanwhile, has been involved in Kenya Academy of Sports elite training camps and mentoring young players in his hometown of Luanda.Both Chole and Chinjili hold CAF B coaching licenses, while Saleh possesses a CAF A license.“We have Saleh, a CAF A coach, and Chole and Chinjili, both with CAF B. As we prepare for the Premier League, we need someone who can make us competitive without the need for further coaching changes,” Abwenje explained.Ambani tips Tusker forward Ryan Ogam to break league’s goal-scoring recordAsked when Villa fans should expect an announcement, he said, “We plan to finalize by December 28, so the players will meet their new head coach after the break.”Abwenje expressed satisfaction with Selebwa’s contributions and reiterated that the team remains on track to achieve its objectives, including promotion to the top tier.Villa currently sits seventh in the 20-team standings with 22 points, four behind league leaders APS Bomet.##NAJAVA_MECA_8586415##
