UGANDA CRANES BOSS PAUL PUT PENS NEW DEAL RUNNING TO 2028
Uganda Cranes coach Paul Joseph Put signs a new 2.5-year contract after a successful tenure. FUFA beat off competition to retain the coach who guided Uganda back to AFCON and is impressing in World Cup qualifiers.
Uganda Cranes Coach Paul Put - COURTESY/PHOTO
Paul Joseph Put, the head coach of the Uganda Cranes, has committed to his future by agreeing to a new deal that would keep him in charge of the squad for the next 2.5 years.
The development was confirmed on Thursday morning at FUFA Stadium, Kadiba, with FUFA 1st Vice President Justus Mugisha and FUFA CEO Edgar Watson revealing the news.
In an uncommon move, the FUFA Executive Committee decided to extend Coach Paul Put's contract, which is evidence of his exceptional work. Some of the best and richest footballing nations in Africa were vying for him, but the federation defeated them. verified Mugisha.
Put signed his first deal with FUFA back in November 2023 and has since helped to change the team. Guiding the Uganda Cranes back to AFCON and also achieving well in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
Put has managed Uganda 23 times since arriving, with a record of 13 victories, 3 draws, 7 defeats, 30 goals scored, and 24 goals given up.
Put expressed his happiness at being able to extend his contract with Uganda Cranes and his eagerness to return.
I appreciate the chance to work here, which is provided by FUFA and Uganda. By putting up strong performances on the field, the team has been able to establish a connection with Uganda's ardent football supporters over the first two years. I am excited for more wonderful memories and think there is yet more to come. "Oh," he said.
Watson, the CEO of FUFA, thinks it was crucial to carry on the trip with coach Put and anticipates even greater things in the future.
"Under FUFA's objective of becoming the best football nation — both on and off the field — we look forward to a bright and successful future, where we will continue to achieve more," Watson added.
Immediately after renewing his contract, the coach gathered a group of 26 players that would feature in two friendlies against Chad and Morocco in the upcoming international window.
On November 15, Uganda will play Chad, and four days later, Morocco. Morocco will host both matches.
FRESH START: NEC CONFIRM KADDU BADRU MUKASA AS HEAD COACH
NEC named Kaddu Badru Mukasa as their new head coach. The former Express FC tactician, known for his data-driven approach and tactical discipline, replaces the departed Hussein Mbalangu with immediate effect.
Kaddu Badru Mukasa in Fresh Start - COURTESY/PHOTO
Kaddu Badru Mukasa, a former Express tactician with a reputation for tactical discipline, data-driven research, and an expanding portfolio of top-flight expertise, has been announced as NEC's new head coach.
Kaddu Badru Mukasa has been confirmed by NEC as their new head coach, with effect from Thursday, November 6, 2025.
The announcement follows NEC's split from their now-former coach, Hussein Mbalangu, who was first suspended from the team on charges of divided loyalty because of his participation in the Masaza Cup with Ssingo.
After first joining the Red Eagles as an assistant, Mukasa joined the team from Express, where he was head coach.
He is recognised as one of the up-and-coming Ugandan strategists who combine traditional coaching principles with contemporary football analysis.
The squad adopted a more methodical and analytical approach during his time at Express, which was characterised by better defensive organisation and forward-thinking attacking play.
Mukasa previously served as Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) FC's assistant coach, where he acquired invaluable expertise in the top division and on the continent.
Outside the dugout, he is well-known for his work in data analysis and sports performance through his business, KB Analytics, which offers statistical analyses and insights for players and organisations.
In a statement, the team announced, "We are thrilled to announce that Kaddu Badru Mukasa will be joining the team as our head coach on Thursday, November 6, 2025."
"KB, as he is affectionately called, contributes a great deal of knowledge, strategic insight, and a winning mindset to our team."
In order to prepare for a more competitive second round of the 2025–26 Uganda Premier League season, Mukasa's first priority will be to stabilise the team for the remaining half-season.
NEC DISMISS HUSSEIN MBALUNGU AHEAD OF SUSPENSION EXPIRY
Uganda Premier League side NEC FC have mutually agreed to part ways with head coach Hussein Mbalangu. The sacking comes just weeks after the club suspended him over alleged "divided loyalty" with the Masaza Cup.
Hussein Mbalungu Dismissed by NEC - COURTESY/PHOTO
In addition to leading NEC to second place last season, Mbalangu, who joined the team in their inaugural season in the Premier League, also led the team to the Uganda Cup final.
NEC have terminated the contract of head coach Hussein Mbalangu, less than a fortnight after suspending him.
Because Mbalangu participated in the Masaza Cup with Ssingo, the club suspended him on the grounds of split loyalties.
A club statement issued on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, stated, "We announce today that a decision has been made to mutually terminate our contract with Head Coach Hussein Mbalangu, effective immediately."
The club has unconditionally removed Coach Mbalangu from all responsibilities related to his position as head coach in a joint agreement.
“Both parties have confirmed that no future duties or commitments would exist between them, providing Coach Mbalangu the option to join any club of his choice.”
In addition to leading NEC to second place last season, Mbalangu, who joined the team in its inaugural Premier League season, also led the team to the Uganda Cup final.
James Odoch is still the team's temporary head coach, although the organisation has stated that a permanent appointment will be announced shortly.
“We express OUR thanks to Coach Mbalangu for his important services to the club and wish him the utmost best in his future undertakings.
“We will soon announce a permanent appointment.”
NEC defeated Mbarara City 1-0 at Kamwenge last week to win their first game of the season. With five points, they are currently ranked ninth out of 16 teams.
On Saturday, they will play BUL at home at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo in their first official match without Mbalangu.