Austin Odhiambo goes AWOL from Gor Mahia as bitter transfer push unfolds

©Gor Mahia

Austin Odhiambo goes AWOL from Gor Mahia as bitter transfer push unfolds

Festus Chuma 12:37 - 09.07.2024

Speculations arise as Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo goes AWOL leaving members of technical bench and fans in suspense.

Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo went AWOL from the team on Monday as the squad departed for Tanzania to participate in the 2024 CECAFA Kagame Cup.

The sudden disappearance of the player has sparked intense speculation about his future, with various reports suggesting potential moves to clubs in Belgium, Rwanda, and Zambia.

Sources close to the player indicate that Odhiambo is on the verge of finalizing a transfer to K.A.A. Gent of Belgium.

“He is working on the logistics of his travel to Belgium. That’s why he was not part of the traveling squad to Tanzania,” said an anonymous source familiar with the situation.

The source also hinted that APR of Rwanda and an unnamed Zambian club were also interested in securing the services of the talented midfielder.

Odhiambo has been instrumental in Gor Mahia's recent successes, particularly in their campaign to retain the Football Kenya Federation Premier League title last season.

His exceptional performances have not gone unnoticed, making him a hot commodity in the transfer market.

Gor Mahia's new head coach Leonard Martins Neiva chose not to comment on Odhiambo's absence leaving fans and analysts to speculate on the reasons behind the player's decision to go AWOL.

The midfielder’s sudden departure has undoubtedly raised questions and concerns among the K’Ogalo faithful.

Odhiambo's career has not been without its controversies as he previously had a public fallout with Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat, which led to his exclusion from the squad that competed in the Four-Nations Tournament in Malawi in March.

However, the rift was later resolved, and Odhiambo was recalled to the national team for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June.

Despite these past issues, Odhiambo’s talent and on-field contributions remain undeniable.

His absence in Gor Mahia’s upcoming matches in the CECAFA Kagame Cup could potentially impact the team’s performance.

Fans are eagerly awaiting an official statement from both the club and the player to clarify the situation.

The transfer window is set to open and the football fans are closely monitoring Odhiambo's next move.

A successful transfer to a European club like K.A.A. Gent could mark a significant milestone in his career providing him with a platform to showcase his skills on a larger stage.