Kampala, Uganda: There is growing uncertainty over the future of Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put, whose contract is set to expire in less than two months, with FUFA, the appointing body, tight-lipped on renewal talks despite his outstanding achievements with the national team.
The Belgian tactician, appointed in November 2023, has guided the Cranes back to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals after five years, securing a slot for the upcoming 2025 tournament.
Put has also kept Uganda in the race for a historic first FIFA World Cup qualification, holding firmly in second place of Group G, with crucial fixtures against Botswana and Algeria still to play. Despite all this, no clarity has been provided by FUFA President Moses Magogo or the federation on whether Put will stay on.
Football analysts and observers warn that losing Put at this point would be a major setback for Uganda’s progressing football at the national level, and the Cranes losing their newfound momentum. “He has built a winning culture in a very short time. To let him go now would set us back years,” said Kasumba, a veteran sports analyst.
Another senior journalist, opting for anonymity for private reasons, stressed that neighbouring federations would be quick to pounce if FUFA hesitates in acting soon. “Kenya or Tanzania would take him immediately if he became available. Uganda must act, or we will lose a coach who has delivered results,” he said.
Put’s influence extends beyond the pitch. He has positioned Uganda on the international football map, attracting scouts and boosting our reputation. Replacing him wouldn’t be just about a new coach; it would mean losing credibility and having to reset again.
As the clock ticks down, pressure is ‘seemingly’ mounting on FUFA to open renewal negotiations to avoid an avoidable crisis and safeguard the Cranes’ resurgence under Put.
Despite the ticking clock, FUFA remained tight-lipped when contacted for comment at the time of filing this story. Attempts to get insights from the President, Eng. Moses Magogo and other senior FUFA officials, on renewal talks, were met with silence and repeated unanswered calls.
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