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Gitego, who joined AFC Leopards in February 2024, has been at loggerheads with the club as he angles for a move away.
Rwandan striker Arthur Gitego has voiced his frustrations, accusing FKF Premier League side AFC Leopards of refusing to release him despite his repeated requests.
The forward, who joined the club in February 2024, has reportedly endured a turbulent season marred by disciplinary concerns and dwindling form, leaving his relationship with the club strained.
Gitego’s struggles became evident toward the end of the season when he missed several league matches due to off-field controversies, including a brief encounter with law enforcement that led to his temporary detention.
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On the pitch, the striker has underwhelmed, managing only one goal during the league campaign and falling behind Sydney Lokale in the team’s attacking hierarchy.
The 26-year-old openly expressed his desire to leave AFC Leopards in an interview with Rwandan outlet Times Sport. "I asked them to release me, but they refused," Gitego lamented, adding that his attempts to secure a move since November have been met with resistance.
Gitego’s frustrations trace back to the departure of former coach Tomas Trucha, who had recommended his release following the incident that led to his arrest. While several clubs have shown interest in the striker, his existing contract, which runs until February 2026, has proven a stumbling block, with the club unwilling to part ways.
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"I had many offers, but they [AFC Leopards] didn't understand. They continue to play little tricks. I think I have no choice but to stay," Gitego said, highlighting his frustrations at the current standoff.
The player claims to have formally requested a contract termination but has received no response from the club. "I wrote to them asking for a separation, but they have not responded. This means I might have to sit and finish my contract with the club," he conceded.
Despite the setbacks, Gitego remains an attractive prospect for potential suitors. Before joining AFC Leopards, he had a successful stint at Marines FC in Rwanda, scoring 16 goals in just over a year and a half.
He also shone early in his AFC Leopards tenure, claiming the top scorer award in the 2024 FKF Cup with five goals.
Gitego’s frustrations come at a time when AFC Leopards are striving to maintain stability within their ranks. However, with the player’s unhappiness now public, the club faces mounting pressure to address the situation and potentially negotiate an amicable solution.
For now, the striker’s future remains in limbo as he navigates the challenges of seeing out his contract or forcing a move away from the FKF Premier League outfit.
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