The new season of the Maasai Mara University League kicks off on 27 January 2024; Unity Media 254 sports writers update you on the status as we embark on another thrilling chapter in one of the most exciting university leagues.
The excitement of the Championship held last weekend means some may struggle to remember exactly where we left things after Sharks FC were crowned champions, beating Commerce 1-0 in the finals
So many questions need answering over the next few months. Will Commerce defend their title? Can the newly-formed side MFC FC surprise many in the league? And the big question looms: will the Championship winners Sharks FC clinch the league title for the very first time?.
Unity Media 254 sports writers provide a detailed report on the talking points at each Maasai mara university League club and where their fate could lie, offering insight into how every team has prepared for the upcoming league campaign.
MARZ UNITED
MARZ UNITED has been active in the transfer market, securing notable signings. They've added Baron from Mara Snipers, Casemiro (midfielder) from Olympic Academy, Alfred from Commerce, and Kevo (right-back) from Mara Snipers. Additionally, Edu, a defensive midfielder, joins from Tsunami. However, it's worth noting that their former assistant captain and one of the best dead-ball specialists in the league EMKAY have left the club, opting to join rivals Tsunami FC.
MAGIC 90
Magic 90 has made notable signings by bringing in Winger Flexor from Sharks FC and midfield maestro Frank from Commerce, enhancing their squad for the upcoming season.
MFC FC
MFC FC enters the league for the first time, making significant signings with players who bring experience from the league. Notable additions include Lengi (right-back) from Assins, Ben Muthoni (striker) also from Assins, Hakim (winger) from MARZ UNITED, and Erick Kariuki (attacking midfielder) from Mara Snipers. Their blend of new talent and experienced campaigners sets the stage for an exciting debut season for MFC FC.
YOUNG AFRICANS
Young Africans have made significant moves in the transfer market, securing three players from Kaya. The additions include Ian Kimani and Sydney otieno both goalkeepers, along with Garnacho as a striker. In ongoing discussions, the team is looking to bring in Pius, one of the best defensive midfielders in the league, from Assins. Additionally, they've signed Abdi from Al Hilal. It's worth noting that Young Africans faced challenges last season, finishing in the bottom three, but these strategic signings could reshape their prospects for the upcoming campaign.
COMMERCE FC
Commerce, the defending champions, are making strategic moves to maintain their title-winning form. They are in the process of signing Adan Maina from Juja, bolstering their squad. However, their midfielder Frank has opted to join Magic 90. Despite these changes, the team remains focused on defending their title, as expressed by their coach Mogusu in an interview with Unity Media 254. The upcoming season promises an exciting battle as Commerce aims to continue their success in the league.
TSUNAMI FC
Tsunami FC, a two-time champion, is gearing up for the upcoming season with strategic signings. Manager Augustine Sampuli has confirmed the acquisition of central midfielder and dead ball specialist Mkay from MARZ UNITED. Additionally, Edwin Saiboku, known for his impressive performance at ASSIN FC with 6 goals and 8 assists, has joined the team. These signings showcase Tsunami FC's commitment to strengthening their squad as they aim for further success in the league.
SHARKS FC
Sharks FC, the reigning championship winners, are on the verge of bolstering their squad with the potential signing of Paulo, a defensive midfielder from Medstars FC. The team seems determined to strengthen their lineup in the upcoming season. The addition of Paulo could bring valuable skills to Sharks FC as they aim for continued success in the league.