Today marks a pivotal moment for Gor Mahia, as it is the final day for applications for the prestigious head coach position. The club is in a race against time to assemble a solid technical bench in preparation for the highly anticipated 2025/26 season.
The Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) giants made headlines last week with the announcement of the coaching vacancy, yet they have remained discreet about the number of applicants and their identities. Anticipation is building among fans and stakeholders alike, as it’s expected that some of Africa’s most renowned tacticians will throw their hats into the ring, drawn by the rich legacy and ambitious vision of the club.
In an insightful interview with Nation Sport, club chairman Ambrose Rachier emphasized the need for a highly qualified African coach who possesses a remarkable track record on the continent.
“We need a skilled coach capable of revitalizing the club’s performance,” Rachier asserted. “We’re searching for the best candidate—someone who is driven by the hunger for success and has a deep understanding of modern football tactics, sports science, and data analysis.”
The club’s commitment to rebuilding took a significant step forward last Friday, when it announced a series of technical and administrative vacancies.
In addition to the head coach position, the club is also looking to fill roles for an assistant coach, team manager, goalkeeper trainer, and team doctor. Furthermore, a notable change looms with the declaration of the CEO position, currently occupied by Raymond Oruo since 2021, as vacant.
To be considered for the esteemed head coaching role, applicants must hold a CAF A or UEFA Pro coaching license and boast at least eight years of experience managing a national team or a top-tier club.
The club has made it clear that a coach’s success will be measured not only by titles won but also by the prestige of the tournaments contested. Preference will be given to those who have triumphed in the CAF Champions League, Confederation Cup, or Africa Cup of Nations, particularly candidates with familiarity in the African football landscape.
Despite the club’s inclination towards appointing an African tactician, a segment of passionate fans has voiced their support for a British coach, reminiscing about Gor Mahia’s previous successes under British leadership.
For the assistant coach position, candidates are required to possess a CAF B or UEFA B license, and local coaches with experience in the FKF Premier League or other top African leagues will enjoy a competitive edge.
However, some supporters have expressed disappointment with the club’s decision to hire the assistant coach independently, arguing that the incoming head coach should be permitted to handpick their backroom staff, ensuring a cohesive and collaborative coaching environment.