Ugandan striker Muhammad Shaban has signed a one-year deal with Ethiopian giants Coffee FC after his much-anticipated transfer to Kenyan champions Gor Mahia failed to materialize.
Shaban had been on Gor Mahia’s radar since March, with the club keen on strengthening its attack ahead of the new season. The forward even put pen to paper with K’Ogalo in August, but his stay in Nairobi was short-lived, as he left just a few days later under unclear circumstances.
The forward’s representatives claim that Gor Mahia did not fully honour their contractual agreement, a situation that left the player disappointed. It is alleged that Shaban was promised a signing fee of Ksh4 million but only received a portion of it, forcing him to reconsider his future with the club. Following the breakdown, he briefly returned to Uganda where he explored a possible reunion with his former side KCCA, though negotiations did not succeed.
With limited options at hand, the 27-year-old striker secured a new chapter in Ethiopia, joining Coffee FC on a one-year contract. While the financial details of his deal with the Addis Ababa-based club remain undisclosed, the move is seen as a fresh start for a player who has enjoyed spells across East Africa and North Africa.
Shaban brings a wealth of experience to Coffee FC, having previously featured for Onduparaka, KCCA, and Vipers in Uganda, as well as North African clubs Raja Casablanca of Morocco, Al Hilal Benghazi, and Al-Anwar SC in Libya. His versatility, strength, and ability to score in crucial moments make him a valuable addition to the Ethiopian Premier League.
On their part, Gor Mahia have distanced themselves from allegations of breaching contractual obligations, instead claiming that the striker introduced fresh demands upon his arrival in Kenya. According to the club, both parties mutually agreed to part ways after the standoff.
For Shaban, the move to Coffee FC presents an opportunity to rebuild his career and rediscover his scoring form. With the Ugandan international eager to prove himself once again on the continental stage, fans in Ethiopia will be hoping he can deliver the goals that match his reputation.
