Harambee Stars Defender Opens Up on Failed Moves to South Africa and Botswana Giant Clubs

Harambee Stars defender Eugene Asike has opened up about his failed moves to Gaborone and SuperSport United FC.

Eugene Asike had established himself as one of the FKF Premier League's premier centre-backs, most notably as a two-time league winner and captain at Tusker FC, with his commanding performances frequently generating interest from major clubs across the continent.

However, not all opportunities materialised into formal contracts, most notably high-profile moves to Southern Africa. Eugene Asike was frequently linked with a switch to the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL), with SuperSport United, an established top-tier club, being a prominent name.

Similarly, a proposed switch to Botswana's powerhouse club, Gaborone United, also fell through at a critical stage.

Eugene Asike opened up about the setbacks he experienced in his pursuit of overseas opportunities. He recalled a time when a top South African club had shown strong interest, even arranging to watch him during a national team fixture.

The move fell apart after he was unexpectedly omitted from the starting squad that day. The communication ended as quickly as it had begun, leaving him disappointed.

The former Tusker FC defender further explained that another promising transfer later collapsed in Botswana, where he had already travelled, undergone tests, and completed the necessary procedures.

Despite everything seeming in order, the agreement failed to materialise at the final stage. These missed chances, he said, were difficult to take, especially after coming so close to securing his breakthrough abroad.

“I remember I was supposed to go to Super Sport, and at that time, Okumbi was the national team head coach. They reached out, and James Wokabi sent me a message and told me the team wanted to come and see me play in the match against Congo Brazzaville at the Nyayo National Stadium,” Eugene Asike revealed in an interview on the Tiki Taka Show.

“They wanted to know if I would start the game so that they would come and watch me. Preparations went on well, but during that game, I did not start.

“They did not travel, and our communication ended there. Before I went to the UK, I was in Botswana, Gaborone United, and after the medical and everything, the deal did not go through.”

Despite the frustrations, Eugene Asike remains proud of the journey that shaped him. He pointed out that the setbacks taught him patience and a deeper appreciation for representing Kenya at the highest level.