Melvyn Lorenzen’s return marks new era for Uganda Cranes

It’s been nearly a decade since Melvyn Lorenzen last wore the Uganda Cranes jersey. Now, the Germany-born winger is back revived under Paul Put’s new vision for the national team and ready to reignite a journey many thought was long over.

The 30-year-old forward is back in national colours nearly nine years since his last appearance, as Put looks to infuse his side with a blend of experience and attacking versatility.

Lorenzen’s sole appearance for Uganda dates back to May 2016, when he featured in a 2–0 friendly defeat to Zimbabwe shortly after making his Bundesliga breakthrough with Werder Bremen.

Since then, the winger’s international ambitions seemed to have faded, with many assuming his Cranes chapter was closed.

But Put has rewritten that narrative.

Addressing the media, the Belgian tactician revealed that Lorenzen’s return was not a coincidence but part of a broader effort to reconnect players who had previously drifted away from the national setup.

Melvyn Lorenzen Ends Long International Hiatus

“It’s true that some players have been undecided about their future with the Cranes, but that trajectory is changing,” Put said.

“We reached out to Lorenzen, showed him how important he could be for us at this stage and he was pleased. He’s a brilliant player, very intelligent, and can bring a lot to the squad. He may have had his reservations back then, but now he’s here, let’s reintegrate him and move forward together.”

Put further noted that the growing professionalism within the Cranes camp is drawing renewed interest from players who once hesitated to commit.

“Some players might not have felt it was worth representing the team before, and that’s okay. But having them now on board shows progress — it means we’re improving, and that’s the most important thing,” he added.

Currently featuring for Muangthong United in Thailand, Lorenzen has already linked up with the Cranes in North Africa as they prepare for international friendlies against Morocco and Chad.

A natural left winger capable of operating anywhere across the front line, Lorenzen’s inclusion adds depth and competition to an attacking pool that features Rogers Mato, Jude Ssemugabi, Dennis Omedi, and Steven Mukwala.

For Put, the move represents more than a recall; it’s a statement of intent to build a side anchored on experience, talent and renewed national pride.

And for Lorenzen, it’s a long-awaited second chance to write a new chapter in his Uganda Cranes story.

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