A former Harambee Stars coach has secured a top role with North African giants ES Sétif, marking a significant step in his managerial career. The German tactician has been appointed head coach of the Algerian side as the club sets its sights on reclaiming its place among the elite of Algerian football.
ES Sétif, one of Algeria’s most successful clubs, endured a challenging campaign last season, finishing sixth in the Professional League 1 with 41 points from 16 teams. They also reached the quarter-finals of the Algerian Cup but fell short of their usual high standards. The appointment of the experienced coach signals the club’s ambition to bounce back and contend for silverware in the upcoming season.
The club expressed confidence in their new manager’s ability to steer the team to greater heights, citing his extensive international experience and tactical acumen. This move comes as part of a major squad overhaul, with seven players leaving the club during the transfer window. Among those released are Abdelmoumene Chikhi, Amir Nouri, Diarra Moriba, Driss Chaabi, and Abdelrazak Mahra, while the contracts of Oladapo Augustin Tunde and Kosi Rodrigue were terminated. These changes pave the way for a fresh start under the new leadership.
The coach brings a wealth of experience, both as a former professional player and as a seasoned manager across Africa and beyond. His playing career featured stints with European sides such as Schalke 04 in Germany, Birmingham City in England, and Fortuna Düsseldorf. Transitioning into coaching, he has managed top clubs and national teams across Africa, including Al-Merreikh in Sudan and US Monastir in Tunisia.
On the international scene, he has handled national teams such as Rwanda, Liberia, Gambia, and Kenya, where he served as Harambee Stars coach during two separate stints. More recently, he guided Lesotho, earning praise for his tactical discipline and ability to rebuild teams under challenging circumstances.
Taking charge of ES Sétif presents a new challenge, as the club looks to rebuild and restore its status as a dominant force in Algerian football. With a combination of experience, strategic planning, and player restructuring, the new coach will aim to deliver a successful campaign that puts the team back on the podium. Fans are optimistic that this appointment marks the beginning of a revival for the club as preparations for the new season intensify.
