Arnold Origi's first day at work - Photo Courtesy FKF Media.
Former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Arnold Origi has discussed his recent appointment as the goalkeeper trainer for the national team.
Origi was handed the goalkeeping role following changes made to the Harambee Stars technical bench. With the exit of coach Engin Firat, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) moved to appoint Francis Kimanzi on an interim basis. Kimanzi will be assisted by Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno and John Kamau, while Origi was drafted in to the goalkeeping role.
Speaking for the first time after the appointment, Origi, who played professional football in Norway, opened up about his return to Harambee Stars, his unexpected shift into coaching, and his thoughts on the players in camp.
“Being back with the national team is a great feeling – it’s always an honor,” Origi said. “I’ve had the privilege of representing Harambee Stars as a player, and now I’m here as a goalkeeper trainer. It’s a different role, but one I’ve grown to love.
“My move into coaching wasn’t planned. My role model was Gianluigi Buffon, who played well into his 40s, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. But after my last contract at FC Hord in Norway, finding a good offer became really tough.
“As you get older, it’s just how the game works. Luckily, I had completed my UEFA coaching badges for goalkeepers, and when I got the chance to train keepers at Östersund, I realised it was something I truly enjoyed. That’s where my coaching journey started.”
On the appointment of Kimanzi, Origi said: “Coach Francis Kimanzi is someone I respect a lot. I worked with him as a player, and I’ve always admired his approach to the game. He’s demanding, but that’s what this team needs to progress. It feels great to work with him again in a different capacity.”
On his first day at work and working with goalkeepers - goalkeepers Farouk Shikalo (KCB FC), Byrne Omondi (Bandari FC), Sebastian Wekesa (Kariobangi Sharks), and Morgan Ambuka (Murang’a Seal) – Origi said: “These keepers are good, and I see them as more than just players – they’re like younger brothers and friends to me. They’ve got potential, but there’s always room for improvement, and that’s my job here.”
Harambee Stars are in camp preparing for the Mapinduzi Cup set for Zanzibar from 3rd to 13th January 2025. Kenya are using the tournament as part of their preparations for the 2024 Africa Nations Championships (CHAN) which they will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
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