SC Villa signs Bbaale replacement

Charles Lwanga celebrates a goal for KCCA FC | photo credit: Courtesy

TRANSFERS SC Villa signs Bbaale replacement

Shafic Kiyaga • 20:09 - 09.08.2023

Interestingly, this move marks a homecoming for Lwanga, as he previously donned the SC Villa jersey before moving to KCCA FC in 2020.

SC Villa has successfully acquired striker Charles Lwanga, as confirmed by The-SportsNation. This move comes as part of the club's strategy to bolster their attack after the recent departure of striker Charles Bbaale.

Lwanga, who sealed a three-year contract on Wednesday, is currently awaiting his formal introduction to the fans.

Interestingly, this move marks a homecoming for Lwanga, as he previously donned the SC Villa jersey before moving to KCCA FC in 2020.

He has spent three seasons with KCCA, where he has scored 18 league goals in 55 appearances since the move. 

The striker commenced his training sessions with SC Villa this week at East High, Ntinda.

Though he had a year remaining on his contract with KCCA FC, the club's new coach, Sergio Traguil, considered him redundant for the team's future plans.

While KCCA initially intended to loan Lwanga out, both parties mutually decided to terminate the contract after fruitful discussions.

Vipers SC expressed interest in roping in the forward, who came through the club’s development side, the allure of more playtime saw Lwanga, choose the Jogoo.

The talented player had previously parted ways with Villa in 2020, following a dispute over unpaid salaries and sign-on fees.

Despite this, Lwanga's potential was evident as he had netted an impressive 33 goals in 35 matches for Villa's junior squad before being elevated to the senior team.

SC Villa's decision to bring Lwanga back seems strategic, especially following the recent exits of several key players. Among those who left include Bbaale and striker Sheif Batte, who has moved on to Express.

Other exits include Frank Muna Kalule, Martin Elungat, Pistis Barenge, Fred Agandu, Charles Bbaale, and Hassan Musana. Goffin Oyirwoth has traveled to the United States to continue his education.

The void left by Charles Bbaale's departure was particularly felt. Bbaale had an impactful tenure at Villa, especially in his last season.

After joining from the Masaza Cup in 2021 as the tournament's top scorer, Bbaale's initial days at the club saw limited action due to injuries.

But, he came into his own in the following season, proving crucial to SC Villa's title aspirations.

Even though the club narrowly missed out on the league title, Bbaale's stellar performance was undeniable, scoring 12 goals and falling just one short of the season's top scorer, Allan Kayiwa.