Sheger Ketema have sacked their head coach, Ashenafi Bekele, after the end of the first round of the 2025/26 CBE Ethiopian Premier League season. Bekele took charge of the newly promoted side at the start of the season but managed to win only four league games.

Bekele was named head coach of Sheger Ketema in place of Bashir Abdallah. Abdallah parted ways with the club after a new coaching regulation was introduced in the league. Nonetheless, Bekele’s reign was marred by inconsistency and a rift between the players and the coaching staff. Out of the 19 league games, Sheger Ketema lost six and drew nine matches.

The club board gave repeated warnings to Bekele over the poor performances after they had signed big names during the summer. Sheger Ketema sacked Bekele, citing poor results, as they sit 15th with 21 points, three points above the relegation zone, going into the second half of the season.

It is not known who will take charge of Sheger but former Ethiopian Coffee coach Kassaye Arage is tipped to be his replacement. Bekele is a veteran coach in Ethiopia. He has led many clubs and the senior Ethiopia national team in a career spanning four decades.

Ashenafi Bekele Sacked by Sheger Ketema After Poor First Round Results

Sheger Ketema have officially parted ways with head coach Ashenafi Bekele following the conclusion of the first round of the 2025/26 CBE Ethiopian Premier League season.

The decision comes after a disappointing run of performances that left the newly promoted side struggling near the relegation zone. Bekele, who took charge at the start of the campaign, managed to secure only four wins in 19 league matches, prompting the club’s board to act ahead of the second half of the season.

Ashenafi Bekele’s Short Spell at Sheger Ketema

Ashenafi Bekele was appointed head coach of Sheger Ketema after Bashir Abdallah parted ways with the club due to newly introduced coaching regulations in the Ethiopian Premier League.

The club had high hopes for Bekele, given his vast experience in Ethiopian football. However, his tenure was marked by inconsistency and internal challenges.

Ashenafi Bekele’s Record at Sheger Ketema:

• 19 league matches managed

• 4 wins

• 9 draws

• 6 losses

• 21 points accumulated

Despite avoiding heavy defeats in most matches, Sheger Ketema struggled to convert draws into victories, which ultimately hurt their league position.

Poor Results Lead to Ashenafi Bekele’s Dismissal

The Sheger Ketema board reportedly issued multiple warnings to Ashenafi Bekele after a string of underwhelming performances.

During the summer transfer window, the club invested heavily in signing established players to strengthen their squad for their first season back in the top flight. Expectations were therefore significantly higher than the results achieved.

Currently sitting 15th on the league table with 21 points — just three points above the relegation zone — the club felt immediate change was necessary to secure survival.

Sources within the club also indicate that Bekele’s tenure was affected by a growing rift between the players and the coaching staff, further complicating the team’s stability.

Sheger Ketema’s Position in the Ethiopian Premier League

Going into the second half of the season, Sheger Ketema find themselves in a precarious position.

Current League Situation:

• Position: 15th

• Points: 21

• Three points above relegation zone

• Four wins in 19 games

With the competition intensifying in the relegation battle, the club aims to reset and improve performances in the remaining fixtures.

Who Could Replace Ashenafi Bekele at Sheger Ketema?

Following the dismissal of Ashenafi Bekele, attention has shifted toward potential replacements.

Former Ethiopian Coffee coach Kassaye Arage is widely tipped to take over the managerial role. Arage brings experience and tactical discipline, qualities that Sheger Ketema may need to stabilize their campaign.

However, the club has yet to make an official announcement regarding Bekele’s successor.

Ashenafi Bekele’s Coaching Legacy in Ethiopian Football

Despite his recent setback, Ashenafi Bekele remains one of Ethiopia’s most experienced football coaches.

His career spans over four decades, during which he has:

• Managed several Ethiopian Premier League clubs

• Served as head coach of the Ethiopia national team

• Developed numerous domestic talents

• Built a reputation for tactical knowledge and discipline

Bekele’s extensive experience in Ethiopian football ensures that his dismissal from Sheger Ketema is unlikely to mark the end of his coaching journey.

What Next for Ashenafi Bekele?

While his tenure at Sheger Ketema ended prematurely, Ashenafi Bekele’s experience and credentials make him a viable candidate for future managerial opportunities.

For Sheger Ketema, the focus now shifts toward survival. The appointment of a new coach could inject fresh motivation into the squad as they fight to remain in the CBE Ethiopian Premier League.

The coming weeks will be crucial for both parties — Bekele as he considers his next move, and Sheger Ketema as they seek stability and improved performances in the second half of the season.