Benson Omalla: Gor Mahia Chairman Refutes Claims of Blocking Striker’s Transfer to Algerian Club

• Gor Mahia chairman, Ambrose Rachier, has attempted to douse the Benson Omalla rumours
• Some of the fans had claimed the club had blocked the striker's potential move to JS Saoura
• Rachier has commented on these allegations, claiming Omalla's deal had been all but sealed

Gor Mahia chairman, Ambrose Rachier, has pushed back against rumours suggesting the club obstructed striker, Benson Omalla's potential move to JS Saoura.

Clarifying the circumstances of the transfer saga, the club chief explained the Algerian club had approached them five days before the transfer window closed.

Rachier stated that the club had 'promptly initiated' the paperwork and he had signed off on all the necessary documents.

However, despite K'Ogalo's efforts, the Algerian club reportedly informed them that they had secured another striker, resulting in the deal collapsing.

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Addressing speculation about Omalla's absence from training following the failed transfer, Rachier claimed the issue had been resolved amicably.

"We did the paperwork from our side, and I signed everything. When we contacted them, they told us they already had found another striker so the move fell through. No one was standing in his way," Rachier said per the Citizen.

Despite negotiations for a six-month loan deal, Omalla's move did not materialise within the Algerian transfer window's timeframe.

Consequently, JS Saoura opted to recruit local talent instead of pursuing the Kenyan forward.

The proposed deal could have earned Gor Mahia Ksh3.2 million, with the striker having been set to receive a monthly salary of 1.3 million Ksh.

Omalla remains focused despite collapse deal

Following an impressive 2022/23 season, Omalla attracted interest from clubs across Africa, including Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Yanga, as reported by Pulse Sports.

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The striker's journey from Kisumu Day to Gor Mahia via Western Stima, and a brief stint in Sweden, culminated in a prolific season, scoring 26 goals and establishing himself as one of Kenya's brightest talents.

Despite the transfer drama, Omalla has remained focused on his current club commitments, as demonstrated by his recent performances for the league leaders.

Meanwhile, Johnathan McKinstry's men suffered a setback, ending their undefeated streak in the 3-1 loss to Kenya Police FC in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League on February 3.

The match was overshadowed by dissatisfaction among Gor Mahia supporters, who have complained about the increased ticket prices at Nairobi's Sacco Stadium.

K'Ogalo were then held to a goalless draw by Ulinzi Stars on February 10 at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. The perennial Kenyan champions have still maintained their lead in the standings with 44 points after 21 matches.

Mark Shaban signs for Gor Mahia

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Sports Brief also previously reported when Mark Shaban signed for Gor Mahia, opting for the perennial champions over derby rivals, AFC Leopards.

There were rumours that the youngster would be signing with Ingwe, especially after a video of him with chairman, Dan Shikanda, went viral online.