Katasi fires back at critics over shock switch from AFC Leopards to Gor Mahia
Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 20.07.26. | 07:57
The custodian caught many by surprise as he had established himself as the first choice at AFC Leopards
New Gor Mahia goalkeeper Humphrey Katasi has defended his decision to swap AFC Leopards for the record FKF Premier League champions, saying the move represents the career progression he had long been waiting for.
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Katasi completed a two-year move to K'Ogalo after leaving AFC Leopards as a free agent following the expiry of his contract.
The two parties failed to reach an agreement over a renewal, allowing Gor Mahia to swoop in and secure the signature of one of the league's most consistent goalkeepers.
His transfer has generated significant debate among Kenyan football fans, as direct moves between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards remain extremely rare because of the historic rivalry between the two clubs.
The rivalry, which dates back to the 1960s, has produced some of the biggest and most attended matches in East African football, with players traditionally reluctant to swap one side for the other.
Katasi, however, insists the decision was straightforward.
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"To me, the move from Leopards to Gor is growth. It is a higher platform which has come at the right time. Playing at the international level (CAF Champions League) means a lot to me and the growth of my career because I have wished for it for a long time."
The goalkeeper becomes only the latest player to make the controversial switch between the two rivals.
While such transfers remain uncommon, Gor Mahia have now signed two players directly from Ingwe in successive seasons after defender Lewis Bandi also joined the club as a free agent in 2025.
Katasi arrives at K'Ogalo after an impressive 2025-2026 season at the den, where he cemented his place as the club's first-choice goalkeeper with a series of commanding displays.
Despite the move to the league champions, the former St. Anthony's Boys Kitale goalkeeper is unlikely to walk straight into the starting team.
He is expected to provide competition for Bryne Omondi, who remains Gor Mahia's established number one and is also the first-choice goalkeeper for Harambee Stars.
With Gor Mahia set to compete in the FKF Premier League, domestic cup competitions and the CAF Champions League, Katasi is expected to have opportunities to impress as he fights for the gloves.
He made his debut for the club in a friendly match against Rayon Sports on Saturday, coming as a second-half substitute.
Meanwhile, AFC Leopards have already responded to his departure by overhauling their goalkeeping department.
The club has recruited Sebastian Wekesa from Kariobangi Sharks, Ugandan goalkeeper Tom Ikara, and Issa Emuria from Bidco United.