@Simon Ja Picha
@Simon Ja Picha

Manzur Okwaro ditches KCB for FKF-PL newbies

Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 31.08.25. | 12:01

Okwaro is a former Rainbow FC player, who can play in central defence and in midfield

Newly promoted FKF Premier League side Nairobi United have completed the signing of defender Manzur Okwaro from KCB on an undisclosed deal.

Okwaro makes the switch to the Naibois after an exemplary showing at the 2024 CHAN tournament with the national team, Harambee Stars.

United are strengthening their squad ahead of the new season, where they will feature in the CAF Confederation Cup in addition to making their FKF Premier League debut.

They have already brought in several players, including goalkeeper Bernard Jairo from Kariobangi Sharks, midfielder Shami Mwinyi from Posta Rangers, FC Talanta’s Chris Opondo, and Murang’a Seal defender Daniel Wafula, among others.

The 19-year-old defender, who impressed in midfield as Harambee Stars reached the quarterfinals of the tournament, was expected to secure a move to Europe.

However, in a twist of events, he has joined the Naibois and is set to feature in the CAF Confederation Cup.

“We have completed his signing,” a source from the club told Mozzart Sport.

“He is a player we have been monitoring for a while, and I am glad we finally got the breakthrough before the CAF deadline for the registration of Confederation Cup preliminary stage players. He is a utility player, full of energy, and having him in the team means we have someone capable of playing in a number of positions, which is a big plus.”

A St. Anthony’s Boys Kitale alumnus, Okwaro previously played for the now-defunct Rainbow FC and has attended trials in France and Sweden.

In an earlier interview after the CHAN opening game against DR Congo, coach Benni McCarthy praised the youngster for his energy after fielding him in an unfamiliar midfield role. He is primarily a central defender but can also operate in midfield.

“He is physically very good. I initially wanted to play him at left back, but in training sessions behind closed doors, I realised the player has an enormous engine. DR Congo’s game plan was to use their big number 9 to initiate play, so having someone with speed, physicality, and good anticipation in front of the defence to screen was vital. That’s why I thought Mansur was the best option for that position. He’s young, athletic, just 20 years old, and afraid of nothing,” said McCarthy.




tags

Manzur Okwaro SuleimanNairobi UnitedFootball Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL)

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