Why Salim Babu is unfazed by Nairobi City Stars’ delayed NSL preparations
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Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 07.09.25. | 15:35
A court injunction has temporarily halted the start of the NSL, and if not lifted within the coming week, the side could unexpectedly benefit from the extra time to fine-tune their preparations
Nairobi City Stars head coach Salim Babu has admitted that his side is racing against time in their preparations for the upcoming National Super League (NSL) season, but remains confident they will be ready when the campaign kicks off.
The second-tier league has been scheduled to begin next Saturday.
City Stars' build-up has been far from smooth after initial fears of the club being disbanded due to lack of sponsorship.
Fortunately, well-wishers came to the rescue, allowing the team to commence preparations last week—starting with player recruitment through trials and confirmed signings before beginning formal training.
While most NSL teams are already in their fifth or sixth week of pre-season, Simba wa Nairobi are at least a month behind schedule.
Babu concedes it will not be an easy task, but he is optimistic of getting his team ready for the opener against Migori Youth and building momentum from there.
“Time is not on our side, but we are going to do everything possible to have the team ready for our first game and thereafter build a strong side for the season. The truth is we are behind in terms of preparations, but our goal remains to fight for promotion back to the FKF Premier League after just one season,” Babu said.
The Kenya U20 coach acknowledged that the lack of a proper pre-season presents a tough challenge but views it as part of the unpredictability that makes football exciting.
“It is certainly not going to be easy because pre-season sets the tone for the season. But such challenges make the job interesting. We will embrace the task ahead, prepare the boys both physically and mentally, and I am certain we will have a good season,” he added.
To strengthen the squad, City Stars have roped in experienced top-flight players.
Former Tusker FC trio James Kibande, Jimmy Mbugua, and Lawrence Luvanda have joined the club alongside ex-KPL midfielder Phabian Sheldon Odhiambo.
Babu believes their experience will be crucial in guiding the largely youthful squad.
“We needed players with Premier League experience to balance the team. You cannot go ahead with a squad full of untested players—you need a few who know the way to lead the rest. I believe we’ve assembled a good team, and what matters now is how quickly they adapt,” Babu noted.
Meanwhile, a court injunction has temporarily halted the start of the NSL.
If it is not lifted within the coming week, City Stars may unexpectedly benefit from extra time to fine-tune their preparations.
