Hot Era for UPL Coaches: A Turbulent Start to the Season

The 2024/2025 Startimes Uganda Premier League season has proven to be a tumultuous one for coaches, as the pressure mounts and expectations rise. With the completion of matchday seven, an astonishing six head coaches have already parted ways with their clubs, signaling a volatile climate in Ugandan football.

Coaching Changes Abound

Kicking off the wave of changes was Coach Richard Malinga of Mbale Heroes FC, who departed citing “sporting reasons.” Malinga expressed frustrations over management’s decisions to recruit players who fail to meet training standards on matchdays. His exit set a precedent that would ripple through the league.

Next, Nikola Kavazovic was relieved of his duties at Vipers SC after a sluggish start to the season. Under new coach Ayalla, Vipers have surged, winning four consecutive matches, including a convincing 3-1 victory over Mbarara City FC at Kakyeka Stadium. This turnaround illustrates the swift impact of a coaching change.

At Kitara FC, Coach Brian Ssenyondo also parted ways with the club after a dismal run that saw them collect only four points from six matches. With a poor record that included losses to NEC FC, KCCA FC, Police FC, and Bul FC, Kitara now languishes in 14th place. Wasswa Bbosa has since taken over, tasked with revitalizing the struggling squad.

Struggles at Express and Lugazi FC

Express FC followed suit, sacking Coach Baker Mboowa after a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Lugazi FC. In the interim, Badru Kaddu has stepped in, facing the daunting challenge of steering the team back to form.

Lugazi FC themselves have also seen significant changes. Coach Sadiq Ssempigi was let go after a winless streak. His replacement, legendary Coach Steven Bogere, has already made an impact, securing a much-needed victory against Express FC.

Lastly, Coach Joseph Mutyaba departed from Soltilo Bright Stars FC following a 1-0 defeat to Lugazi FC. Bright Stars now sit at the bottom of the table, with just a single point from seven games, a situation that has prompted urgent changes in management.

A Season of High Stakes

This season’s coaching carousel highlights the high stakes involved in the Uganda Premier League. As clubs scramble to find stability and success, the pressure on coaches to deliver results has never been greater. With several clubs struggling to find form, it remains to be seen how these new appointments will affect their fortunes as the season progresses. The league is undoubtedly in a hot era for coaching, and the coming weeks will be crucial for both players and managers alike.