How Ulinzi Stars beat four clubs to Ben Stanley's signature

Five clubs that ply trade in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League jostled for Ben Stanley Omondi's signature during the off-season transfer window.

KCB, Nairobi City Stars, Kariobangi Sharks, Tusker and Ulinzi Stars all expressed desire in landing the budding midfielder who earned himself a name for his exploits in the 2022-2023 season, his first in the top flight.

The five fought for his services thanks to the three goals and thirteen assists he managed with the 2009 league winners, Sofapaka last season.

Batoto Ba Mungu also attempted to sign the upgrade of the midfielder’s terms from a loan spell to a permanent deal but were unsuccessful.

Omondi had joined Sofapaka last year on loan from National Super League side Migori Youth.

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Ulinzi, who many considered not to be favourites in the rack, had the last laugh after managing to convince the youngster to join their camp.

Omondi disclosed that the involvement of Ulinzi head coach Anthony Kimani in the negotiations is all that made the difference as the youthful tactician presented himself as the man to trust with his next phase of his career.

"Many teams expressed interest but ended up choosing Ulinzi. Coach Kimani cared to explain why he needed me at the club and what he thought I could offer. His plan, philosophy and man management also stood out," revealed Omondi.

Omondi didn't hit the ground running at Ulinzi as the team struggled in the opening three rounds of the season where the soldiers lost all matches.

However, the team had something to celebrate of after flooring Sofapaka 1-0 last weekend to redeem themselves.

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Omondi who is hoping to surpass his last season’s goal tally called on his teammates to build on the confidence gained last weekend and get their season rolling.

“We didn’t start well but at least the win we got last weekend will push us to fight harder in the next fixtures. I also hope to beat the record I put last season in as far as goal contributions are concerned,” added the former Migori Youth star.