Akhulia explains Bidco United releasing 14 players after online backlash
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 21.08.25. | 13:30
For the coach, the changes are less about instability and more about natural evolution in a league where financial muscle and player ambition often dictate transfers
Bidco United head coach Anthony Akhulia has spoken out to address mounting criticism after the club confirmed the departure of 14 players, a move that sparked heated debate and speculation on social media.
The announcement, made on Tuesday evening, quickly drew backlash from fans with some alleging that as many as 20 players had been axed.
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The reaction raised questions about the club’s stability, coming just months after Bidco narrowly escaped relegation with a dramatic final-day 2-1 win over Sofapaka.
However, Akhulia, who also doubles up as Kenya’s U-20 coach, moved to clarify the situation in a candid Facebook post.
He stressed that the majority of players left on their terms after securing better contracts elsewhere, while only about five were released by the club.
“People need to get facts right. Most of these players found greener pastures and requested release letters,” Akhulia explained. “Football is their livelihood. If someone is earning 40 and another team offers 90 or 100, I cannot deny them that opportunity. Only a small number were officially dropped. The rest left by choice, and we should be proud of them for taking the next step in their careers.”
The coach also criticized what he termed as “misleading narratives” pushed online, urging fans to seek accurate information before concluding.
He emphasized that the departures should not be viewed as a crisis but rather as a natural part of football, where ambition and opportunity drive movement.
Several of the departed stars have already found new homes. Midfielder Jacob Onyango has joined Mathare United, defender Evans Maliachi signed with APS Bomet, while Simeon Nyamwaya sealed a big move to FKF Premier League champions Kenya Police.
Others include Said Tsuma, who returned to Bandari FC, goalkeeper Daniel Odiwour, who moved to KCB, promising defender Eugene Ikutwa, who signed for Tusker FC, and Kevin Musamali, who joined Shabana FC.
The group officially released by Bidco consists of Henry Onyango, goalkeepers Fred Munyendo and Malvin Nderitu, midfielder Tevin Omutere, as well as Martin Nderitu, John Owira, and David Orem.
For Akhulia, the changes are less about instability and more about natural evolution in a league where financial muscle and player ambition often dictate transfers.
“Everyone who has played for this team gave their best,” the coach affirmed. “The least we can do is thank them for their service and wish them success. Players move on, teams rebuild, and life in football goes on.”
