Rwandan striker Arthur Gitego has made a surprise U-turn to stay at AFC Leopards, opting to honour the remaining 12 months on his contract despite earlier expressing his desire to leave.Last week, Gitego had publicly stated that he wanted to part ways with the club due to a strained relationship.##NAJAVA_MECA_8633308##He missed several league matches towards the end of 2024, following a series of off-field incidents, including a brief detention by police. However, the forward has now changed his mind, revealing that he is committed to fulfilling his contract with the Kenyan club.”I am under contract, and I will honour the full duration. I am not leaving the club. I came to Rwanda for holidays, and I just returned,” Gitego told Times Sport.The striker has struggled this season, scoring just one goal, and he hopes to regain his form. “Surely, I will get back on track and start scoring again as the season progresses,” he added.Ulinzi coach on why he played Boniface Muchiri 3 hours after arriving from Harambee Stars dutyGitego has found himself behind Sydney Lokale in the pecking order and will need to work hard to reclaim his starting position.Last week, he accused the club of blocking his exit, stating, “I asked them [to release me], but they refused.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8632988##The player had been pursuing a transfer since November, following the exit of former coach Tomas Trucha, who had called for Gitego’s release after his arrest.Despite having offers from other clubs, he acknowledged that his contract, which still has a year remaining, has complicated a potential move as AFC Leopards are unwilling to let him go.”I had many offers, but they didn’t understand. They continue to play little tricks. I think I have no choice but to stay,” Gitego admitted.One FKF Premier League club on the spotlight over non-payment of players salariesWith no response from the club regarding his requests for separation, Gitego now believes he must see out his contract. “I have written to them asking for a separation, but they have not responded, which means I have to sit down and finish my contract with the club,” he said.Gitego joined AFC Leopards in February 2024 on a two-year deal from Rwanda’s Marines FC and quickly made an impact, winning the top scorer award in the 2024 Mozzart Bet Cup with five goals.He could make a comeback on Saturday when AFC Leopards plays FC Talanta in Dandora.Sylvaine Ricks reveals secret behind Ulinzi Stars’ recent wins
