AS Kigali set for 'tough' national league campaign

WITH over Rwf250 million to spend, AS Kigali have more than it takes to be genuine title contenders in the next league season, which will start on September 29. The City of Kigali-sponsored side have their eyes set on winning this season’s Azam Rwanda Premier League after finishing fourth last season. The 2013 Peace Cup winners will start their campaign against defending champions Rayon Sports. “Our ultimate target is to play continental football and the only way to do that is by winning either the league or the Peace Cup, but we’re also aware that it will be tough against the likes of Rayon Sports, Police as well as the usual contenders APR,” the team manager, Joseph Nshimiye told Times Sport in an exclusive interview. AS Kigali team manager, Joseph Nshimiye. Courtesy He noted that, “We have come up with what we believe is a sufficient budget for the upcoming season, and we want the team to get everything they want in order to achieve our target next season.” AS Kigali have been busy in the transfer market strengthening the squad in preparation for what could be a make or break season for Coach Eric Nshimiyimana. Ahead of beginning pre-season training on August 21, AS Kigali have released nine players and so far brought in six including Rwanda international Savio Dominique Nshuti from Rayon Sports. “The first target is to do better than we did last season and we know we’re capable of doing that. This means, we have to aim as high as possible and no one should write us off as genuine title challengers,” warned Nshimiye. The other new signings include; Jean-Claude Ndarusanze from Lydia Ludic Academic (LLB), central defender Omar Ngandu from APR, midfielder Kevin Ishimwe from relegated Pepiniere as well as strikers Emmanuel Ngama from Mukura VS and Frank Kalanda from Soana FC in the Uganda Premier League. Forward Michel ‘Bugesera’ Ndahinduka has signed a one-year contract extension. However, the club have also released veteran goalkeeper Jean Claude Ndoli, striker Barnabe Mubumbyi, Emmanuel ‘Crespo’ Sebanani, Emmanuel Nsoro Uwimana, Alexis Nkomezi, Suleiman Kakyira, Clement Toto, Divin Kayiranga and Yves Habinshuti. Eric Nshimiyimana. Courtesy Regarding the new signings, head coach Nshimiyimana said: “The new players are all talented and we have confidence in them, we’re trying to put together a strong enough team that can challenge for trophies every season.” Meanwhile, team manager Nshiyimye has confirmed the AS Kigali pre-season tournament will not be held this year. AS Kigali finished in fourth place last season with 53 points, a whopping 20 points behind the champions, Rayon Sports. editorial@newtimes.co.rw