Beja Nyamawi’s move to AFC Leopards collapsed due to a number of reasons with Bandari ultimately winning him over.
After a breakout season in the National Super League (NSL), Beja Nyamawi appeared poised to join Kenyan giants AFC Leopards. But despite initial momentum, the deal collapsed.
Now a hot scoring sensation for Bandari, the striker has earned an Harambee Stars call-up from coach Benni McCarthy, leaving Leopards wondering what could have been.
Pulse Sport takes a look at three reasons the Harambee Stars striker's move to Leopards broke down.
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3. Front-Runners AFC Leopards Stalled at the Finish Line
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Leopards were heavily interested in Nyamawi after his 20-goal Golden Boot-winning campaign with Assad in the in the National Super League (NSL) during the 2023/24 camapign.
They saw him as the ideal reinforcement for their frontline, and talks even advanced to direct conversations with top club officials.
But the promising transfer lost steam just when fans expected an official announcement due to contrctual detail as Bandari ultimately swooped in to scoop the now red hot Harambee Stars striker.
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2. Lack of Medical Insurance Raised Major Red Flags
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According to recent report by Mozzart Sport Nyamawi revealed that AFC Leopards failed to offer any form of medical insurance, a non-negotiable for his team.
"I was all set to join AFC Leopards and even spoke with their top brass. But they weren't offering medical insurance. My agent considered it too risky, asking, 'What if you get injured?' That was a major warning sign," he said.
His agent pulled out of the deal after the club indicated the player would personally bear the cost of any treatment in case of injury.
That detail proved to be a deal breaker as Leopards went on to miss out on the striker.
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1. Bandari Offered a Safer, More Professional Package
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While AFC Leopards hesitated, Bandari stepped up with a comprehensive offer, including medical coverage.
For Nyamawi, who had already battled injury concerns, this was crucial.
He chose security over prestige and has since signed a two-year extension with the coastal club, effectively ending speculation over his future.
Now a mainstay in Benni McCarthy's Harambee Stars, Leopards seemed to have missed out on top talent as Bandari reap high.