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Former Kenyan international Francis Xavier assumes a crucial coaching position with a team in the FKF Premier League, marking a significant career move.
National Super League side Mara Sugar's official, Boniface Ambani, has refuted rumours going around that the club sacked former coach Francis Xavier
Xavier, a former Kenya international, left the position at the club on Saturday just hours after the team suffered a 2-0 loss to Mathare in a match played in Awendo.
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In a lengthy statement posted on his official Facebook page, Ambani clarified the situation, stating that the club had to let Xavier go for better opportunities.
"Would wish to inform the public to stop speculations or spreading rumours. Coach Francis Xavier received an offer from Sofapaka FC to deputise coach [Ezekiel] Akwana. We couldn't stand in his path as much as I tried personally to ask him to stay and build this team as he builds his CV in the NSL. He was doing a commendable job," he wrote.
"Losing to Mathare has got nothing to do with his departure. All I can say at the moment is, I wish him all the best at his new work station. Kila la Kheri Xavier. As part of Mara Sugar team, we shall look into other options for his replacement. Otherwise, we are focused at the moment on our next assignment."
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Xavier's departure comes after nearly two years at the helm of the millers, taking over from John Baraza, who left for the Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Kakamega Homeboyz.
Despite the loss to Mathare, Ambani emphasised that the decision to part ways with Xavier was not influenced by the recent defeat.
Francis Xavier, whose football journey began at St. Peter’s (Mumias Boys Boarding School), displayed remarkable talent from a young age. He later joined St. Peter's High School, representing Western Province in the Panasonic tournament held in Nairobi. Despite his modest stature, Xavier's talent shone brightly.
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Transitioning from grassroots football, he joined Shabana FC, marking the start of a remarkable career in Kenyan football. In 1996, Xavier made a significant impact while playing for Eldoret KCC. In 2001, he joined AFC Leopards, donning the national team colours under the guidance of James Sianga, contributing to the team's triumph in the Castle Lager Cup tournament.
Beyond his playing days, Xavier continued to leave an indelible mark in the sport. As AFC Leopards' Team Manager, he played a pivotal role in securing the Shield Cup in 2013. His coaching journey led him to Wazito FC and later Vihiga United, where he contributed to the team's qualification for the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) in 2017.
Xavier's decision to join Sofapaka FC as an assistant coach represents a new chapter in his career, and his experience and expertise are expected to be valuable assets to his new team.
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Mara Sugar FC now faces the task of finding a suitable replacement for Xavier as they continue their campaign in the National Super League.
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