Former Gor Mahia head coach Frank Nuttall has officially expressed interest in taking charge of the Harambee Stars, Kenya’s national football team.The position became vacant following the resignation of Turkish tactician Engin Firat, who stepped down in late 2024 after failing to guide Kenya to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to take place in Morocco.Former Mathare United tactician Francis Kimanzi was appointed the interim coach to lead the team during the Mapinduzi Cup and oversee preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN), which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.##NAJAVA_MECA_8632062##However, with the search for a permanent head coach underway, Nuttall has thrown his hat into the ring.Despite Mozzart Sport widely reporting that former AmaZulu head coach Benni McCarthy is leading the race for the job, Nuttall—who was named the Kenyan Premier League Coach of the Year in 2015—has formally declared his interest.Nuttall, fondly remembered by Gor Mahia fans for his historic run with the club, believes his track record in Kenya positions him as the ideal candidate to lead the Harambee Stars.Speaking to Mozzart Sport, the Scottish tactician revealed that he has already reached out to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to express his desire for the role.“I am interested in the Harambee Stars head coach job, and I have informed the FKF of my desire and motivation to lead the team,” he said.Mariga among African football legends confirmed for CHAN 2024 draw in NairobiWhen asked why he chose to pursue the position, Nuttall pointed to his past achievements and ongoing interest in Kenyan football. “I had unmatched success in Kenya and continue to monitor and assess the national team’s performance and players,” he explained.During his tenure at Gor, Nuttall led the club to back-to-back league titles in 2014 and 2015.The 2015 season was particularly remarkable, as K’Ogalo completed the league campaign unbeaten—a feat last achieved in 1976.##NAJAVA_MECA_8629479##Under his stewardship, Gor Mahia also clinched the Kenyan Super Cup and the KPL Top 8 Cup in 2015. His success earned him the prestigious Kenya Premier League Coach of the Year award that same year.Beyond domestic success, Nuttall’s influence at K’Ogalo extended to continental competitions, where the club showcased commendable performances in the CAF Confederation Cup.His ability to nurture local talent and instil a winning mentality made him a fan favourite.Nuttall’s career spans a diverse range of roles and countries. Before his time in Kenya, he served as the head coach of Ghanaian giants Hearts of Oak, leading them to their first FA Cup final appearance in 17 years.How Collins Omondi inspired Posta Rangers to victory amid off-pitch strugglesHe also won the Ghana Independence Cup, further cementing his reputation as a capable leader in African football.Additionally, Nuttall boasts experience as a fitness coach and trainer in Europe.He was part of the backroom staff at Rangers FC during their successful 2004–2005 season when they won the Scottish Premier League and League Cup.Nuttall’s coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, hard work, and tactical awareness—traits he believes can propel Harambee Stars to new heights.He also highlighted his commitment to youth development, an area he considers vital for the long-term success of Kenyan football.##NAJAVA_MECA_8625021##Nuttall also expressed optimism about the future of Kenyan football, citing the involvement of FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga as a positive step forward.Mariga, a former Kenya international with experience in top European leagues, could play a pivotal role in transforming the local game, according to Nuttall.“Mariga is someone who has international exposure and has played football globally. With his mindset, connections, and desire to improve things, I believe he will do a good job at the federation,” he remarked.
