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AFC Leopards striker Arthur Gitego has refuted allegations of partying and alcohol consumption, citing injury struggles behind his form.
AFC Leopards striker Arthur Gitego has strongly rejected claims that he is a party animal, denying reports that he has been indulging in excessive alcohol consumption despite facing growing criticism over his poor goal-scoring record this season.
The Rwandese forward has found himself at the center of a heated debate among Leopards fans, with many questioning his performances and calling for his departure from the club.
The 22-year-old, who joined the club in February this year, has struggled to replicate the form that saw him finish as the top scorer in last season's FKF Cup, where he netted five goals.
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In the current top-tier league season, Gitego has only managed a single goal in ten appearances, contributing to mounting frustration among the club’s fanbase.
Reports on social media have painted a damaging picture of Gitego's lifestyle, claiming that he frequently parties and consumes large amounts of alcohol, diverting attention away from his footballing responsibilities.
However, the Rwandese international vehemently denied the accusations, insisting that he is a teetotaler.
"I don't take alcohol at all, contrary to what has been spreading on social media," said Gitego as per SportsBoom.
"I was shocked to see reports linking me to alcohol consumption and partying, which I don't engage in at all."
Gitego expressed his frustration with the baseless rumors, which he believes are part of a larger agenda against him.
"People, who have been against me, have taken advantage of my struggle with form to advance their ill agenda against me. They have tried all manner of things to bring me down, but I am a strong man," he added.
The allegations of alcohol consumption and partying have further intensified following Gitego's underwhelming performances on the pitch.
The forward, who has faced criticism for his inability to live up to expectations as a foreign player, has been targeted by fans who feel that his high salary is not reflective of his contributions to the team.
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Gitego, however, remains resolute in his commitment to the club and his determination to prove his critics wrong.
"No one understands what I have been going through. I have been pushing hard in training and on match days despite being in pain. I have been carrying an injury since October, but the love of the club has been forcing me to persevere," he explained.
The injury Gitego refers to is a knee knock sustained during a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier match against Benin in October.
The injury has hindered his ability to perform at his best, but Gitego is determined to overcome the setback and return to full fitness.
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Despite the ongoing challenges, Gitego is focused on silencing his detractors.
"I want to prove myself on the pitch," he said.
"I will score at least ten goals in the remaining part of the season. I’m working hard on my fitness and targeting to regain my form, and I will keep working to win trophies with the club."
Gitego's determination to succeed extends beyond individual accolades.
He is also driven by a desire to help AFC Leopards end their long wait for the Kenyan Premier League title.
The club has not lifted the league trophy in over two decades and Gitego has set his sights on securing the 13th league title and returning the team to continental football after a seven-year absence.
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