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Harambee Stars Goalkeeper Reveals 2 Key Reasons Behind Bandari FC Exit to Join Ethiopian Giants

Harambee Stars Goalkeeper Reveals 2 Key Reasons Behind Bandari FC Exit to Join Ethiopian Giants
Harambee Stars Goalkeeper Reveals 2 Key Reasons Behind Bandari FC Exit to Join Ethiopian Giants
The former KCB FC goalkeeper has lifted the lid on what influenced his decision to leave Bandari FC for Ethiopian heavyweights.
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Farouk Shikhalo has reflected on how the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) became a turning point for many Kenyan players, himself included.

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The former Bandari FC goalkeeper delivered a standout performance in Harambee Stars’ 1-0 win over Zambia, making key saves that helped Kenya reach the quarterfinals of the tournament.

Following the competition, several Kenyan stars caught the eye of international clubs, among them Ryan Ogam, Alphonse Omija, and Farouk Shikhalo.

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Alphonse Omija went on to sign with Tunisian giants Étoile Sportive du Sahel, while Ogam joined Austrian Bundesliga side Wolfsberger AC.

Back home, Gor Mahia strengthened their ranks with notable additions such as Bryne Omondi, Michael Kibwage, Lewis Bandi, and Mohammed Siraj.

Farouk Shikhalo Explains Decision to Leave Bandari As He Reveals New Club

Farouk Shikhalo Explains Decision to Leave Bandari As He Reveals New Club

The Harambee Stars goalkeeper, speaking on the Alex Mwakideu TV, revealed that his impressive performance at the CHAN tournament had opened a new chapter in his career, as he was set to join Ethiopian giants Saint George SC.

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Farouk Shikhalo shared that all arrangements for the move have been completed and described the offer as rewarding, noting that his new salary would be twice what he previously earned.

The former Yanga SC goalkeeper acknowledged that, while it might not be the most lucrative deal of his career, it was still a solid opportunity.

He praised the visibility of the Ethiopian Premier League, often broadcast on SuperSport, and observed that, despite Kenya having greater football talent, Ethiopia had surpassed them in marketing and player remuneration.

“While playing at CHAN, I had a great time, and God opened another door for me, so I’ll be heading to Ethiopia’s Saint George SC. I have finalised everything and I must admit that it is not a bad deal,” Farouk Shikhalo explained.

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“I will be earning double what I used to get, but I wouldn’t say it is one of the best deals I have ever signed. The Ethiopian league is not bad.

“Super Sport usually airs it, and if you compare that with Azam, I think the former is much better and in terms of payments, Ethiopia pays better than Kenya. I think we have more talent than Ethiopia, but their marketing is above us.”

Meanwhile, Saint George S.C. is one of the most famous and successful professional football clubs in Ethiopia, based in the capital city, Addis Ababa. The club was founded in 1935 and is considered the first football club in Ethiopia.

It was established as a symbol of Ethiopian nationalism and resistance against the Italian occupation. They are the dominant force in Ethiopian football, holding a record number of Ethiopian Premier League titles.

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