Brian Bwire returns to Kenya after Orlando Pirates move falls through

Brian Bwire has completed a return to Kenya after signing a one-year contract with Tusker FC, following the collapse of a proposed move to Orlando Pirates.

The 26-year-old goalkeeper left Polokwane City at the end of June after two seasons with the South African club. His departure followed a dispute over an extension option which he declined to sign, triggering a difficult final period at the club.

Bwire had been Polokwane City’s first-choice goalkeeper until the end of January, but subsequently went without playing for 15 matches. He was named among the substitutes for the match against Siwelele FC on Valentine’s Day, but was not included in the match-day squad again after that fixture.

His absence allowed Lindokuhle Mathebula to take over in goal for Polokwane City.

The Kenyan’s only competitive appearances during that period came for the Harambee Stars, under then-manager Benni McCarthy, in March and June. The contractual disagreement with Polokwane City eventually moved into the legal arena and was considered by the PSL boardroom.

Bwire won the dispute and was granted his clearance, allowing him to leave the club.

Chippa United subsequently made an offer for the goalkeeper but withdrew from the move. Orlando Pirates then showed interest, although the proposed transfer also broke down at the eleventh hour in circumstances that were not explained.

Orlando Pirates have since signed Dublin Boon from Stellenbosch FC, while Bwire has secured his next opportunity with Tusker FC.

Tusker FC will compete in the CAF Confederation Cup this season and are scheduled to face Sudanese side Al Ahli Madani in the first qualifying round. Bwire’s return to Kenyan football will therefore be followed by continental competition with his new club.

Despite Bwire’s departure, Polokwane City remain eligible to receive payments connected to his international involvement. The South African club will continue to benefit from the FIFA Club Benefits Programme for each World Cup qualifying match in which Bwire was included in Kenya’s match-day squad.

Bwire was named in the Harambee Stars squad for five World Cup qualifiers, meaning Polokwane City will receive USD2362, approximately R38000, for each of those matches.

His move to Tusker FC brings an end to a period marked by uncertainty after his contract dispute at Polokwane City, the failed Chippa United approach and the late collapse of the proposed Orlando Pirates transfer.