Mwebaze secures first signing at Mbale Heroes

Midfielder Daniel Shabena has joined Mbale Heroes from Express FC /Express FC image

FOOTBALL Mwebaze secures first signing at Mbale Heroes

Shafic Kiyaga 21:58 - 09.09.2023

Shabena's transfer marks a new chapter in his career, as he departs the seven-time UPL champions, Express FC, following the expiration of his one-year contract extension.

Asaph Mwebaze, the coach of newly-promoted FUFA Big League side Mbale Heroes, is wasting no time in building his squad for the upcoming season.

In a significant move, midfielder Daniel Shabena has committed to joining Mbale Heroes from Uganda Premier League (UPL) giants Express FC.

Shabena's transfer marks a new chapter in his career, as he departs the seven-time UPL champions, Express FC, following the expiration of his one-year contract extension.

The midfielder had initially signed a three-year deal with Express in 2019.

Express FC midfielder Daniel Shabena has joined Mbale Heroes | Photo Credit: Express FC media

The move from 'Mukwano Gw'abangi' to 'The Surgeons' represents a transition from one historical club to another, with both teams boasting their unique legacies.

Express FC, based in Wankulukuku, is renowned for its ten Uganda Cup titles, while Mbale Heroes proudly hold two of their own.

Hailing from Walukuba Masese, Shabena's football journey started at JMC Hippos and BUL in Jinja.

Express FC midfielder Daniel Shabena in action against Onduparaka durin the 2019/20 season | Photo Credit: Courtesy

Shabena's rise through the ranks was particularly evident with KJT, where he played a pivotal role in the team's promotion to the top flight in 2014.

The midfielder's talent did not go unnoticed, and he earned a spot in the national U20 team, participating in the CAF U20 qualifiers against Rwanda in 2016, following standout performances with JMC Hippos during the 2015-16 season.

However, it was with the Red Eagles that Shabena truly made his mark on Ugandan football.

He not only played in the prestigious Champions League for Express but was also a crucial member of coach Wasswa Bbosa's 2021 UPL title-winning squad, which subsequently conquered the CECAFA Club championship.

Shabena played an instrumental role in the Red Eagles' triumphant journey, including the memorable 1-0 victory over Nyasa Big Bullets of Malawi at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, securing the 2021 Cecafa Kagame Cup.

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Despite the controversy surrounding Micho's tenure, early indications show that he will stay on as Uganda Cranes coach through upcoming challenges on the international stage including the CHAN and 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

With his wealth of experience and versatility, Shabena is expected to play a vital role in Mbale Heroes' ambition to secure top-division football.

The club aims to achieve this milestone in the upcoming season, and Shabena's arrival is a significant step towards realizing this goal.