Why Mathare United chose Ouma as new head coach

Mathare United Chief Executive Officer Jecton Obure has explained why the club settled on David Ouma as its new head coach, citing his deep understanding of the club’s culture, philosophy and long-standing connection to the Mathare United project.

Ouma was officially unveiled as the club’s new tactician on Wednesday, succeeding John Kamau, who left his role before the conclusion of the 2025/26 FKF Premier League season.

Speaking through the club’s media channels, Obure revealed that the recruitment process focused on identifying a coach who not only possessed the required technical credentials but also understood the identity that has defined Mathare United over the years.

According to Obure, Ouma emerged as the standout candidate due to his familiarity with the club’s system and his previous involvement with both Mathare United and the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA).

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“When we shortlisted candidates, we looked at the list and wanted someone who understands the system, the culture, has been here before and knows how we play. We then narrowed it down to David,” Obure said.

The CEO disclosed that bringing Ouma back to the club was not an easy task, as the coach had attracted interest from several clubs both locally and abroad following his successful spells in Tanzania.

Despite the competing offers, Ouma opted to return to the club where his football journey began, a decision Obure believes reflects the values that have guided Mathare United and MYSA since their inception.

“When we spoke, there was a lot of back and forth as we worked to agree on various matters. He informed us that he had offers locally and abroad, especially after his time in Tanzania, but he chose to come back home,” Obure explained.

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“It is a good feeling to have him back. This is exactly the spirit Bob Munro always talked about, having people from within the club take up important roles. We are delighted to have him because he understands our vision, has been here before, and we believe he is the best person to take us forward.”

Ouma’s ties with the Mathare United setup span more than two decades. He joined MYSA as a youth player before moving into coaching and later served as an assistant coach at the club between 2004 and 2005.

The former Sofapaka and Posta Rangers coach returns to the Slum Boys for the first time since his earlier stint with the club, bringing with him extensive experience gained both in Kenya and abroad, including successful coaching spells in Tanzania.

He now faces the task of steering Mathare United to improved fortunes after a difficult 2025/26 campaign that saw the former league champions secure their FKF Premier League survival on the final day of the season.

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