KPL embraces changes for new season
What you need to know:
- Consequently, Oguda says KPL and FKF are in talks to introduce ‘special’ transfer windows in November this year and March next year as compared to the normal January and June seasons for the purchase and sale of players.
- The Uganda, Tanzania, Egypt, South Africa and Ethiopian leagues have already adopted the August-May schedule, whilst Kenya and Zambia are among the competitions that have been ordered to adjust.
The Kenya Premier League management has announced a change in the schedule of the top flight competition.
The changes, according to KPL's chief executive Jack Oguda, are as a result of a directive from the Confederation of African Football (Caf), which was communicated to him via Football Kenya Federation(FKF).
Thus, the 2018/2019 SportPesa Premier League season will kick off at a yet to be announced date this December, and thereafter, the 18 team competition will run for seven months, ending in July next year.
Normally, a top-flight football league season in Kenya takes place between February and November.
“Ultimately Caf wants all leagues on the continent to begin in August and end in May the following year just like it is already happening in Europe. This will bring uniformity and synergy between the various competitions and especially for clubs competing in continental assignments,” said Oguda
“In the 2018/2019 season, we will arrange for a two-week Christmas break plus another break probably in March. These fixtures will be released in a fortnight.”
Commenting on this subject, Gor Mahia coach Dylan Kerr told Nation Sport on Thursday that he has made plans to adjust his pre-season program accordingly.
“The authorities have updated us on the changes and we have made our plans," Kerr explained.
“When the current league season ends (on October 7), we will have a two-week break and then resume to prepare for the trip to England. When we return, the players will rest for about ten days and then begin preparations for the new season. It has been a grueling season and I have told the players to have adequate rest.”
Consequently, Oguda says KPL and FKF are in talks to introduce ‘special’ transfer windows in November this year and March next year as compared to the normal January and June seasons for the purchase and sale of players.
The Uganda, Tanzania, Egypt, South Africa and Ethiopian leagues have already adopted the August-May schedule, whilst Kenya and Zambia are among the competitions that have been ordered to adjust.
