Kenya U20 midfielder Irad Mshindi joins Latvian club
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Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 22.01.26. | 17:37
The midfielder had attracted interest from several Swedish clubs, primarily in the second tier,
Kenya U20 midfielder Irad Mshindi Ambugo has officially joined Latvian top-flight side FK Liepaja, just four months after signing with Swedish third-tier club Enkopings SK (ESK).
The move marks a major step in the 18-year-old’s professional career as he seeks to continue his development in Europe.
FK Liepaja welcomed the midfielder to their squad, stating, “The 18-year-old Irad Mshindi Ambugo joins the FK Liepāja squad. He previously played for Enköpings SK Fotboll in Sweden and is also a Kenya U20 national team player. Welcome to Liepaja, Irad!”
Mshindi made a strong impression during his time at ESK, featuring in eleven matches.
Known for his intense, physical, and fearless style of play, both in training and matches, he quickly became an important part of the team and attracted interest from clubs abroad, including sides in Sweden’s Allsvenskan.
Reflecting on his move and his time in Sweden, Mshindi expressed his gratitude to the club and its supporters.
“I would like to thank everyone at ESK, the management, supporters, and especially the players. The guys in the team welcomed me immediately and helped me settle into both Enköping and the culture. That meant a lot to me. I have developed tremendously during my time here, both as a player and as a person, and I will always carry ESK in my heart.”
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ESK Fotboll also praised Mshindi for his contribution to the club and his development as a young professional.
Sporting Director Pelle Johansson said:
“When Irad arrived, he was quite a shy young man, but from the very first training sessions we saw a player who never backed down from anything. He has played with intensity, toughness, and commitment, both in training and matches. His maturity, attitude, and football intelligence have impressed us greatly. We are proud to see another player take the next step to a higher level, and it shows that ESK is a strong environment for young players to develop.”
Before joining ESK, Mshindi represented Kenya’s U20 national team, at the 2024 African Nations Cup in Egypt.
He had signed a 2.5-year contract with ESK, made possible through the partnership with investors Agent 1914.
The midfielder had attracted interest from several Swedish clubs, primarily in the second tier, but after consulting with his representatives, he chose to join FK Liepāja, who finished third in the Latvian Virslīga last season.
The club is coached by Swedish manager Andreas Alm, who has previously led IFK Norrkoping, Odense BK, BK Häcken, and AIK. Mshindi has signed a contract that runs until 2028.
ESK Fotboll concluded their farewell message by expressing gratitude for Mshindi’s professionalism and contributions.
“Everyone at ESK would like to extend a warm thank-you to Irad Mshindi Ambugo for his contributions in the green-and-black jersey. Your professionalism, energy, and determination to always give your all have left a lasting mark on both the team and the club. Thank you for everything you have contributed, and best of luck in the next step of your career.”
