Football Kenya Premier League (FKFPL) side Bandari FC officially unveiled Moroccan coach Mohammed Borji as their new head coach on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the Mbaraki Sports Club in Mombasa. This appointment comes days after the club parted ways with former head coach Ken Odhiambo, who was relieved of his duties after a winless start to the 2025/2026 season.

Borji, 44, takes over the reins with the immediate task of improving the team's standing in the league. His unveiling marks a new chapter for the Mombasa-based club, which is keen to turn around its fortunes.

Context of Coaching Change

The decision to appoint Borji follows a challenging start to the FKF Premier League season for Bandari FC. The club dismissed Ken Odhiambo after only two matches, where the team secured one draw and suffered one defeat. Under Odhiambo, Bandari FC drew 0-0 against Kariobangi Sharks and then lost 0-1 to Shabana FC at their home ground. These results left the 'Dockers' in 13th position on the 18-team league table with just one point.

Ken Odhiambo's departure on September 30, 2025, marked his third stint with Bandari FC. He had returned to the club on July 22, 2024. Following Odhiambo's exit, assistant coach John Baraza was appointed as interim head coach.

New Technical Bench Structure

Mohammed Borji will be supported by a new technical bench that includes his compatriot Tarik Bendamou as the first assistant coach. John Baraza, who served as interim head coach, has been retained as the second assistant coach, providing continuity and local experience to the team.

Borji's Background and Experience

Mohammed Borji, born on January 30, 1981, is a Moroccan national. He holds a UEFA B coaching licence. Before transitioning into coaching, Borji had a notable career as a striker, playing for several top-tier clubs including Association Salé, Wydad Casablanca, AS FAR Rabat, OC Safi, CS Hammam-Lif (Tunisia), Difaa El Jadida, Raja Beni Mellal, and Pahang FA (Malaysia). He also featured in CAF competitions during his time with FAR Rabat, gaining valuable continental experience.

His coaching career began in 2019 as an assistant coach at Renaissance Club Athletic Zemamra (RCA Zemamra), where he later became caretaker manager. He subsequently held head coach roles at Jeunesse Sportive Kasba Tadla in 2020 and Club Olympique de Meknès (COD Meknès) in March 2021, before joining Moghreb Atlético Tétouan (MAT) as an assistant coach in March 2023.

Implications for Bandari FC

The appointment of Borji signals Bandari FC's intent to inject new tactical approaches and leadership into the squad. The club's management will be looking for an immediate impact to steer the team away from the lower half of the league table and compete for top honours. The blend of international and local coaching expertise within the new technical bench is expected to provide a comprehensive strategy for the team's performance.

What to Watch

All eyes will be on Bandari FC's upcoming matches to see how quickly Borji can implement his philosophy and whether the team's performance and results will improve. The integration of new coaching staff and the adaptation of players to new tactics will be crucial in the initial phase of his tenure.