Alpha Onyango points at Gor Mahia for blocking transfer to Etoile du Sahel

In a dramatic twist of events, Kenya national team Harambee Stars midfielder Alpha Onyango has blamed his parent club Gor Mahia for denying him a dream move to sign for Tunisian giants Etoile Sportive du Sahel.

Mozzart Sport reports, Etoile du Sahel, who recently signed another Gor Mahia player – Alphonse Omija, following their impressive show during the the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament in East Africa, that the club were willing to break the bank and secure the services of the midfielder.

According to Onyango, the transfer was stopped by the Kenyan record champions: “I had two deals after the conclusion of the CHAN 2024 tournament. I was not keen on joining the Libyan club due to sporting reasons.

“However, the Etoile project seemed promising and good for my progression. Unfortunately, my club rejected the $100,000 offer, insisting that I am not for sale, at least for now.”

He added: “I respectfully informed the club of my decision to leave, but it appears the deal will not sail through. I am gutted that my ambition to play football beyond our borders will flop.

“I truly believe the midfield is deep enough that the club can remain competitive, regardless of who leaves.”

However in a quick rejoinder seen by Pan-Africa Football, Gor Mahia vice-chairperson Sally Bolo exonerated herself from the transfer saga, throwing the ball back on Onyango’s managers Salient Sports Management.

Here is the full statement from Bolo;

Greetings,

I have been following, with amazement, the debate over Kenyan international defender Alphonse Omija’s transfer from Gor Mahia to Etoile du Sahel of Tunisia. I’m getting plenty of flak, wrongfully, for weakening a club a profess to love.

Let me lay out the facts.

1. The Tunisian club approached Gor Mahia with an offer for the player
2. The Executive Committee sat and deliberated over the matter.
3. The EC sanctioned the transfer

The player has for the last four years been managed by Salient Sports Management. The company through its FIFA licensed agents had to step in and negotiate the best package for the player after both clubs had agreed to do business as per FIFA rules and regulations.

The transfer was above board and was duly signed off by Gor Mahia EC. I did not initiate the transfer of the player as alluded to by those clamoring for my neck, neither did I sell the player.