Turkish coach Engin Firat laments unpaid wages while leading Kenya's national football team, despite government promises; struggles explaining situation to family.
Months have passed since Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat last received his paycheck.
While the country rallies behind the national football team, behind the scenes, the Turkish tactician's voice rises in a cry for remuneration.
18:00 - 12.09.2023
FOOTBALL Harambee Stars brought down to earth as South Sudan secure maiden win over Kenya
The Harambee Stars had a poor performance in an international friendly against South Sudan, played at the Moi International Stadium in Kasarani on Tuesday.
Firat's frustrations were palpably evident following Harambee Stars' unexpected 1-0 defeat to South Sudan on Tuesday.
Speaking in a post-match press conference, Firat highlighted that the true ordeal was not the unpaid wages.
16:04 - 12.09.2023
FOOTBALL Returning Humphrey Mieno sets lofty targets for Sofapaka as he eyes victory against Posta Rangers
Veteran midfielder Mieno believes Sofapaka have enough to win the Premier League title but must ensure consistency starting with Sunday’s clash with Posta Rangers
Instead, the herculean task lay in rationalising the situation to his family, especially when he's investing personal funds.
"I haven't been paid for months, but that's not the issue," Firat admitted with a hint of distress in his voice.
14:45 - 12.09.2023
BOXING Amina Martha's Olympic dream deferred but her inspirational story shines bright
Amina Martha's journey from adversity in Kenya to Dakar's Olympic qualifiers ends in heartbreak against champion Haghighat-Joo.
"The real challenge is explaining to my family why I continue with the job without receiving compensation. I have to justify to them why I invest my time and money and not for the family's sake."
However, what intensifies Firat's situation is the broken promise from the government's end.
07:00 - 11.09.2023
STARS ABROAD: Eight top foreign-born players that Kenyan can still turn to ahead of 2026 World Cup qualifiers
Harambee Stars are preparing for a grueling 2026 World Cup qualification campaign and there are a number of eye-catching talents born abroad that coach Engin Firat can entice.
Back in June, Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Ababu Namwamba, assured Firat that the ministry would settle his outstanding dues soon.
Fast forward to September, and Firat is still awaiting that commitment to materialise.
12:30 - 12.09.2023
RUGBY: Bling Wambua unveils Kenya Sevens squad and combat plan for top dogs South Africa
Kevin Wambua has selected a mixture of youth and experience for the 2024 Olympic qualifiers and believes he has enough quality to beat fancied South Africa
The experienced gaffer was appointed as the head coach on September 19, 2021, on what was initially a three-month stint.
Impressed by his performance and dedication, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) announced an extension of his contract for a substantial period, leading up to 2026.