Francis Xavier explains why he left Mara Sugar for lesser role at Sofapaka

© Sofapaka

FKFPL Francis Xavier explains why he left Mara Sugar for lesser role at Sofapaka

Festus Chuma 06:33 - 27.10.2023

Former Kenya international Francis Xavier opens up on why he left Mara Sugar FC, hinting at compelling motivations for his decision.

Former Kenya international Francis Xavier has unveiled the compelling reasons behind his abrupt departure from the National Super League (NSL) side Mara Sugar FC.

The seasoned coach left his Mara Sugar post last Saturday just hours after a disheartening 2-0 loss to Mathare United in a recent match played in Awendo.

Speculation was rife that the defeat had cost him his job, but Xavier has now shed light on his motives for switching allegiances to Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) side Sofapaka.

"I am elated to have joined a team with such a rich history in the country. Yes, it was a tough decision to make, but I have never been one to shy away from a new challenge," Xavier revealed.

This move, which has raised many eyebrows, saw the coach transition to a lesser role as an assistant at Sofapaka.

Now, Xavier has stated that his decision was driven by a compelling desire to continue growing in his coaching career.

"As a coach, I wanted to grow; hence, the decision to join a Premier League club as an assistant. Akwana is a personal friend to me, and we have worked together before. I have confidence that our combination will see the team continue posting positive results in the upcoming fixtures," Xavier affirmed.

Xavier, who now dons the hat of an assistant coach at Sofapaka, finds himself in a precarious situation as the team languishes at the bottom of the Premier League table with a meager four points from seven matches.

However, he remains undaunted, stating, "I know most coaches don't like to join a team during these difficult times, but for me, I believe this is the time to prove what someone is made of. We have to train and prepare the team in order for them to start winning all their upcoming games."

"If the team plays according to the coaches' script after our next four to five games, we will be out of the danger zone," noted the former Kenya international, exuding confidence in his and head coach Ezekiel Akwana's coaching prowess.

The 2009 league champions face a daunting challenge ahead as they gear up to clash with Tusker FC this coming Saturday.

The match is set to take place at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos and promises to be a litmus test for Xavier and the coaching team, as they seek to implement their strategies and rally the players to secure a much-needed victory. 

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