Isabirye's Vipers future in doubt again

Alex Isabirye is pondering his next move after leaving Vipers SC

FOOTBALL Isabirye's Vipers future in doubt again

Shafic Kiyaga 08:04 - 08.07.2023

It seems like a tumour that will not just go away. Despite Alex Isabirye's concerted effort to address his future at Vipers, reports keep on linking him to an exit from the club.

Reports of Vipers SC head coach Alex Isabirye Musongola's potential departure from the club have resurfaced, raising speculation about the coach's future.

According to Swift Sports, Isabirye is set to step down from his role as Vipers head coach, a position he took over in January 2023 after replacing Spanish coach Beto Bianchi.

Isabirye inherited a struggling squad that had endured a two-month winless streak and nine games without scoring.

Despite leading Vipers to their first-ever domestic league double, the 47-year-old coach has been the subject of ongoing speculation regarding his future at the club.

Many reports have suggested that Vipers is considering the appointment of another foreign manager to take over the reins at Kitende.

Swift Sports further reports that Isabirye has already communicated his decision to the club hierarchy, pending approval.

However, the coach has previously dismissed these rumours and emphasized his commitment to preparing the team for the upcoming season.

During the first day of preseason training on Monday, Isabirye addressed the players and clarified his position amid the exit rumours.

"There are so many rumours going around that I have left the job, resigned, this and that," he told the team, in a video footage released by the club.

"That's their (reporters) job, because if they don't do that, where will they get money for feeding their kids," he mocked.

"So, let's concentrate here, let's work, let's do the job," Isabirye rallied his charges.

As the coach was awarded the Uganda Premier League Coach of the Season, he expressed his intentions for the upcoming campaign.

"I also know people expect a lot this coming season, so we shall sit with management and set targets," Isabirye affirmed.

"We hope to reinforce the team more, even in the technical area, to compete better on the continent."

"I have never talked to anyone about when I am leaving the club," Isabirye stated. "I have a two-year contract, and I am busy preparing my players."

While Isabirye maintains his commitment to Vipers SC, the club is expected to announce his replacement in the near future should his reported resignation be approved.

Recently, they appointed Lukusa Kayembe Raoul from the Republic of Congo (DRC) as their new assistant coach.