Gor Mahia launch CAF Champions League rebuild with four signings after title triumph

Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia have begun a major squad reshuffle ahead of their return to the CAF Champions League, confirming four new arrivals as they prepare for a demanding 2026/27 continental campaign.

The K’Ogalo giants secured their 22nd league title after a dominant 2025/26 season, finishing top of the FKF Premier League table with 69 points — five ahead of arch-rivals AFC Leopards, who settled for second place.

With the Champions League preliminary rounds scheduled to begin in September 2026, Gor Mahia have moved quickly to reinforce key areas of the squad as they target a stronger showing on the African stage.

The first legs of the opening preliminary round will be played between September 4-6, 2026, with the return fixtures scheduled for September 11-13.

Gor Mahia’s last Champions League appearance came during the 2024/25 season, when they featured in the early qualifying rounds. Their most recent involvement in the tournament’s group stage dates back to the 2018/19 campaign, and the club is determined to return among Africa’s elite.

Four exits make way for fresh faces

As part of their preparations, Gor Mahia confirmed the departure of four players — Fidel Origa, Chris Ochieng, Bryson Wangai and Levin Odhiambo.

“Everyone at Gor Mahia thanks Fidel (Origa), Chris, Bryson and Levin for their service and wishes them every success in their future endeavours,” the club said in an official statement.

The departures have opened space for new additions, with the Kenyan champions focusing on bringing in players capable of competing both domestically and against Africa’s top clubs.

Harambee Stars defender Sakari headlines arrivals

Among the biggest additions is Harambee Stars defender Daniel Sakari, who joined Gor Mahia as a free agent after leaving Kenya Police FC.

The experienced full-back signed a two-year contract and arrives with a strong reputation following several seasons at the top level.

“We are delighted to announce the signing of Daniel Sakari, one of Kenya’s most accomplished and consistent full-backs, ahead of the 2026-27 season,” Gor Mahia announced.

“The Harambee Stars international joins us on a two-year deal with a wealth of experience at both club and international level, adding quality, versatility and leadership to K’Ogalo’s defensive unit as the club prepares to defend its league title and compete on the continental stage.”

Sakari has been part of the national team setup since making his senior debut in 2019 and has featured in AFCON qualifiers, FIFA World Cup qualifiers and CECAFA competitions.

His defensive discipline, tactical awareness and ability to support attacks were key factors behind Gor Mahia’s decision to bring him on board.

Goal machine Okoth arrives after standout season

Gor Mahia have also strengthened their attack with the signing of Paul Okoth from Ulinzi Stars.

The striker enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, finishing the 2025/26 season as the FKF Premier League’s second-highest scorer with 18 goals, missing out on the Golden Boot by just one goal.

His goal-scoring record made him one of the most sought-after forwards in Kenyan football, and Gor Mahia moved to secure his services as they look to add more firepower ahead of their Champions League challenge.

The club also added goalkeeper Michael Onyango from Equity Bank FC on a two-year deal.

Onyango impressed in the FKF National Super League, where his performances between the posts helped establish him as one of the division’s standout goalkeepers and attracted interest from top-flight clubs.

Experienced winger Okoth completes squad additions

The final signing announced by Gor Mahia was experienced winger David Okoth, who joins on a two-year contract.

Okoth brings significant top-flight experience after successful spells with Kakamega Homeboyz, Nzoia Sugar and Kenya Police FC, where he contributed 36 goals in the Kenyan Premier League.

His best period came during the 2021/22 season with Homeboyz, playing a key role as the club finished runners-up in the league after narrowly missing out on the title.

With the Champions League group stages set to begin in late November 2026, Gor Mahia’s recruitment drive signals their ambition to compete beyond domestic football.

The 16 teams that progress from the preliminary rounds will advance into the group stage, with matches scheduled to continue into January 2027 after a short mid-season break.