M. KisengeThe lamentations of Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 12.09.23. | 23:01
The coach has not been paid for over eight months
The 1-0 defeat Harambee Stars suffered in the hands of South Sudan at Kasarani Stadium on Tuesday evening is one that saw fans call for coach Engin Firat's head.
They came to the stadium in their thousands hoping that Stars would serve them happiness just like they did to Kenyans living and working in Qatar last week.
However, that was never to be as South Sudan had other thoughts, winning the game through Kenya Police forward Tito Okello who struck just two minutes into the game.
While everyone is taking the blame to Firat's door, the Turkish gaffer hit out to various stakeholders for being quick in demanding for results while ignoring the needs and plight of the team.
Firat, lamented that loads of administrative responsibilities were unfairly lying on his shoulders and further had to use personal resources.
"I feel a little bit alone to be honest. It can't be that everything is on my shoulders. Something has to change. We are missing many things here," he said.
"I personally travelled to Qatar alongside the team manager so as to push for the friendly match. You can't organise such matches through the phone. It's always me, I never get any salary and I even pay from my pocket. This is a serious problem. People talk about respect but they show no respect," he lamented.
When pressed to explain why he is working in such a frustrating environment rather than resigning and going for greener pastures, Firat said the determination to see the Kenyan team and players succeed keeps him going.
He however admitted that there was pressure and unanswered questions from his family who have been wondering why he is yet to throw in the towel.
"This is the same question my wife asks me daily," joked Firat.
"I have a problem explaining to my family why I am here and not getting money. I have to explain why I spend my time and money here," he offered.
Despite all, Firat says working with the Kenyan players has been nothing but fulfilling.
"These boys deserve it, they want to learn and progress in their career. I do it for them. I am everywhere I can help even in athletics. That's my character," he added.
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