Former Harambee Stars Boss Reunites With Austin Odhiambo and Kenyan Trio in Lebanon

Former Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has been appointed the new head coach of Lebanese Premier League side Nejmeh SC, marking his return to club management after more than a decade.

The German-Turkish tactician takes over at one of Lebanon’s most decorated clubs as they push for domestic success this season.

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Firat’s appointment will see him reunited with three Kenyan internationals currently on Nejmeh’s book, Austin Odhiambo, Anthony Akumu, and Masoud Juma.

The trio previously worked under Engin Firat during his tenure as head coach of the Kenyan national team, a familiarity that could prove crucial as he settles into his new role.

Nejmeh SC confirmed Engin Firat’s arrival through an official statement shared on their social media platforms, highlighting his extensive international coaching résumé.

“German-Turkish football coach Engin Firat, who previously managed the Kenya, Moldova, and Iran national teams, has been appointed as the new manager of Nejmeh SC. Firat brings extensive international experience, having worked across Europe, Asia, and Africa during his coaching career. We warmly welcome Coach Engin Firat,” the club stated.

Engin Firat managed Harambee Stars between 2021 and 2024 before departing shortly after the election of Hussein Mohammed as Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president.

The former Harambee Stars coach’s exit was followed by a contractual dispute, with Firat filing a claim with FIFA seeking approximately Ksh 80 million in alleged unpaid dues after negotiations between the two parties failed to yield an agreement.

The appointment at Nejmeh marks Firat’s first club coaching role since 2014, when he managed Iran’s Saipa FC. Since then, he has largely operated in national team football and technical director roles, including stints with Moldova and Kenya.

At Nejmeh, he will be assisted by club legend Abbas Atwi, a move expected to help bridge the gap between the technical bench and the squad.

Engin Firat replaces Tunisian coach Radyi Al-Jaidi, who resigned from his position citing family reasons. Nejmeh SC paid glowing tribute to Al-Jaidi, praising his professionalism, dedication, and commitment during his time at the club, while wishing him and his family well in the future.

Nejmeh SC are currently third in the Lebanese Premier League standings with 28 points, seven behind leaders Al Ansar.

Engin Firat’s immediate task will be to close that gap and mount a serious title challenge, while also maximising the potential of a squad that includes familiar faces from his time with the Harambee Stars.