Ugandan midfielder Chris Pius Akena has disclosed why he ditched Greek club Apollo Pontou, in the off-season transfer window, for record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia.
Akena caught many by surprise after leaving European football for the Football Kenya Federation Premier League, a competition that is still struggling to find its footing post the coronavirus pandemic. The skillful midfielder was expected to either remain in Europe or return to Asian football after cutting ties with Pontou; however, he signed for the most successful football club on Kenyan soil.
SportsBoom caught up with Akena, who lifted the lid on what compelled him to make the career decision which sports pundits observed was a downgrade and a gamble that could go either way.
GOR MAHIA IS A BIG CLUB
Akena conceded to have encountered difficulties in turning down the offer Gor Mahia tabled soon after learning of his availability in the past transfer window. The 22-year-old said Gor Mahia’s profile, the deeply-rooted winning culture, and the fact that it is the sole club from the CECAFA region to have clinched a continental tournament won his heart.
“It goes without saying that Gor Mahia is one of the biggest clubs in the East Africa region. It is the only club to ever win a continental title and when they called, I couldn’t turn them down. It is a respected club that rarely finishes a season without winning a title, and this also formed a basis for my decision,” said Akena in a telephone interview with SportsBoom.
The Qatar Aspire Academy graduate further conceded that the allure of featuring in the CAF Champions League also informed his decision to sign for the Green Army. Gor represented Kenya in the Champions League by virtue of being the league winners but their quest for a place in the group stages was scuttled by defending champions Al Ahly of Egypt.
K’Ogalo, who were making a return to the Champions League after three years in the cold, lost 6-0 on aggregate to the Red Devils, to exit the tournament at the second preliminary round. Even though he didn’t feature in Gor’s brief sojourn, Akena said being part of the tournament was one of the reasons behind his shocking transfer to the club.
“Gor Mahia offered me opportunities, like the Champions League, which I felt would be crucial in the development of my career. I might have missed the continental assignment but I am certain that I will contribute immensely in next season’s edition,” said the left-footed midfielder.
Further, the MA. Ag Marinas’ midfielder said he considered the visibility of the Kenyan league and how frequently do players leave Gor for greener pastures. “The Kenyan league is always monitored by scouts and coaches. Gor matches are well covered meaning that it is easier to progress to the next level if I perform well,” he added.
I WANT TO LEAVE RICH LEGACY AT GOR LIKE KIZITO AND AUCHO
Several Ugandan players have achieved remarkable success at Gor Mahia, over the years, with Patrick Henry Kaddu being the latest to help the club clinch a record-extending 21st league title last season.
However, the two midfielders will undoubtedly stand head and shoulders above the rest when the history, and role Ugandan players have held in the success story of Gor Mahia and dominance in the Kenyan league.
Baba Kizito and Khalid Aucho command massive respect among the Gor Mahia faithful for the dedicated service they rendered during their time at the club. Akena wants to follow in their footsteps by winning titles the duo did and enjoying the longevity they have experienced years after exiting Gor with their heads high.
“The two clearly left a mark at the club going by the feedback I have been getting. I like Kizito most as he has been in the game for a long time. He achieved a lot at Gor and the national team, something I yearn for. He is still going strong in the Vietnamese league and all these can be traced to the foundation he laid at Gor,” said Akena.
GOR MAHIA STAGE WILL PROPEL ME BACK TO UGANDA CRANES
Even though he is yet to fully settle in at his new workstation, the former AL- Rams midfielder is counting on his success at the club to help him find his way to the national team. Before his move to Gor, Akena had managed to secure two caps with the Uganda Cranes and hopes to add more in the New Year.
Akena secured the two caps in 2021 when Coach Milutin Sredojevic summoned him for two international friendly matches against; Gabon and Mauritania. “I wish to return to the national team and cement my place in the midfield. I am sure the national team head coach keeps a close eye on players in foreign leagues for consideration,” added Akena.
