Having beaten Vipers to win the Uganda Cup in 2022, Isabirye got the chance to coach a club that has whatever it needs to win and just lacked the technical lead to orchestrate that.
Alex Isabirye took the reigns at Vipers SC with the team struggling to create and score goals but ended up winning the Startimes Uganda Premier League on goal difference.
Hillary Mukundane's goal against Wakiso Giants in the Stanbic Uganda Cup got the ball rolling as Isabirye and Vipers squeezed through to the next stage.
When Beto Bianchi replaced Roberto Oliviera, things went South at Vipers as the club went nine games without finding the back of the net.
If Isabirye's appointment revealed anything to the powers that be at Vipers, it is that a foreign coach might not be necessary to dominate Ugandan football.
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15:07 - 03.06.2023
FOOTBALL Uganda Cup Final: Vipers complete league, Uganda Cup double
Vipers SC has etched its name into the 'double class' after winning the 2023 Uganda Cup title following a 1-0 victory over Police FC at the Akii Bua Stadium in Lira.
The exploits of Mike Mutebi at KCCA FC suggest the same. He dominated the league and did relatively well in continental engagements.
With the proper support, local coaches can get the job done.
Fortunately or unfortunately for Isabirye, his stint at Vipers has started with massive success. That can be good and bad at the same time.
Winning the League and Cup double means the bar has been set high at a club that is obsessed with winning.
09:12 - 04.06.2023
FOOTBALL Alex Isabirye scoffs at critics after delivering first domestic double at Vipers
Alex Isabirye has scoffed at his critics after he guided Vipers to their third Stanbic Uganda Cup title and their first domestic double in the club's history.
The demands for the coming seasons will be even higher. A better return in the CAF Champions League will be a must, and Isabirye might have to ensure that to maintain his status at the club.
But that is yet to come. What could not have been emphasized more is the fact that Uganda has some top-quality coaches that just need the opportunity on the big stage.
Having beaten Vipers to win the Uganda Cup in 2022, Isabirye got the chance to coach a club that has whatever it needs to win and just lacked the technical lead to orchestrate that.
His knowledge of the game and relationship with Ugandan football and players played a significant role in turning Vipers' fortunes around.
Choosing to trust custodian Fabien Mutombora, who had lost his place to Alfred Mudekereza at the start of the season, is one of the big decisions Isabirye made early in his life at Vipers.
Restoring confidence in striker Abubakar Lawal is the other, and the Nigerian went on to play a massive role in the UPL title race and also scored Vipers' first and only goal in the Champions League.
To go to Brazil, Spain or Portugal to hire a manager might not be a terrible idea if you are getting the tried and tested. Or at least someone with deep knowledge of African football.
But it is hard to explain what exactly Beto Bianchi did at Vipers and how he was seen as a good choice for the role.
Breaking the bank to hire an established foreign manager is welcome, but if a coach needs to introduce himself to ardent football fans, you are better served by a local who has a track record of winning.
The double will probably reinstate Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa's faith in local coaches as opposed to the overpriced foreigners.
Isabirye has started well and, given time, will do even better.
19:38 - 03.06.2023
FOOTBALL Mutombora, Mandela amongst winners as Vipers cruise to Uganda Cup victory
Mutombora was named the tournament's best goalkeeper, while Mandela was recognized as the best defender.
From 15 games managed, Isabirye won seven, drew five and lost three en route to the League title and Uganda Cup.
A full season with the team will put further scrutiny into his work, but for now, Isabirye should get his flowers for a job well done.
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