Barely two months after his tumultuous departure from the Harambee Stars dugout, Engin Firat has resurfaced in the Middle East, taking the reins at Nejmeh SC in a move that signals his intent to remain a significant player in global football management.

Football is a game of short memories and rapid transitions. Just as the dust was settling on his resignation from the Kenyan national team job in December 2024, Engin Firat has thrust himself back into the limelight. The Turkish coach, known for his pragmatic approach and fiery sideline demeanor, has been appointed as the new head coach of Lebanese powerhouse Nejmeh SC. The appointment comes swiftly after the departure of Radhi Jaïdi, with the club’s board moving decisively to secure an experienced hand to steer their ship.

From Nairobi to the Mediterranean

Firat’s journey from the high-altitude pressure cooker of Nairobi to the Mediterranean coast of Beirut is a testament to his resilience. His time in Kenya was a rollercoaster of high hopes and crushing disappointments, culminating in his resignation following the change of guard at the Football Kenya Federation. Yet, his stock clearly remains high in international circles. Nejmeh SC is not a retirement home; it is one of the most successful clubs in Lebanese history, and they do not hire novices.

The narrative of his arrival is enriched by the presence of Austin Odhiambo, the former Gor Mahia maestro who recently signed for Nejmeh. The dynamic between the two will be scrutinized closely. In Kenya, their relationship was often described as strained, with Firat famously questioning Odhiambo’s commitment to the national cause. Now, fate has bound them together in a foreign land. Will this be a case of old wounds festering, or a pragmatic alliance for mutual success?

The Challenge of Consistency

Firat joins a team that is desperate for consistency. The Lebanese Premier League is a grueling competition, and Nejmeh’s fans expect nothing less than total dominance. Firat’s defensive solidity, often criticized in Kenya as overly cautious, might be the perfect antidote to the tactical naivety that often plagues ambitious clubs. He brings a wealth of experience from his time with Moldova, Iran, and Kenya, a diverse portfolio that suggests he can adapt to different footballing cultures.

• Tactical Evolution: Pundits will be watching to see if Firat evolves his style. In Kenya, he often relied on transition play. With Nejmeh, he will likely be expected to dominate possession and break down stubborn low blocks.
• The Staff: Assisting him will be Abbas Atwi, a figure of immense respect at the club. This partnership bridges the gap between Firat’s international perspective and the local nuances of Lebanese football.

As Firat dons the burgundy colors of Nejmeh, the message to his detractors in Nairobi is clear: life goes on. While Kenyan football continues its perpetual search for a new identity under the new federation leadership, its former coach has already moved on to the next battle. Whether he succeeds or fails in Beirut, Engin Firat remains a man who refuses to stay down.