The future of Richards Bay FC goalkeeper Ian Otieno remains uncertain as he’s said to have not returned to the club ahead of the new season.
Before joining Richards Bay at the start of the last campaign, the Kenyan goalkeeper spent almost six years in Zambia. His time there began in 2018 when he signed with Red Arrows FC, and he later moved to ZESCO United before his KZN move.
The 31-year-old goalkeeper participated in nearly half of Richards Bay’s matches last season, featuring in 14 games across all competitions. This included 10 in the Betway Premiership, one Nedbank Cup, and three Carling Knockout Cup appearances.
In those matches, he conceded 17 goals and only came out with five clean sheets in the process.
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR OTIENO
Otieno is understood to have not joined the team in preparation for the 2025/26 campaign, according to sources close to the situation.
He was not part of the team that played and won the KZN Premier’s Cup that was held in their backyard, uMhlathuze Sports Complex in Richards Bay this past weekend.
In their goalkeeping department, Richards Bay currently have Salim Magoola, who’s been the number one choice for the team for some time. They also have Siphesihle Mtshali and Philasande Manqele, who are the products of the DDC side.
Manqele has previously played for the first team, featuring in three matches of the 2023/24 Carling Knockout Cup. He conceded four goals and kept only one clean sheet.
Having strengthened their squad with a couple of signings, Richards Bay have yet to sign any goalkeeper this transfer window, with Otieno’s future still uncertain.
They have welcomed Gabadinho Mhango, Lindokuhle Mtshali, Thabani Zuke, Benson Mangolo, Halalisani Vilakazi, Ntokozo Nzama, Sboniso Madonsela, Philani Khumalo, Lundi Mahala, Mbulelo Nombengula and Olwethu Mbambo.
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