Sports
Paul Put Named Uganda Cranes’ New Head Coach in Ambitious Transition Period
In an announcement made by FUFA President Moses Magogo at a press conference held at the FUFA Complex in Mengo on Thursday morning, former Congo Coach Paul Put was unveiled as the new head coach of the Uganda Cranes. The accomplished coach has inked a two-year contract.
Taking the reins from Morley Byekwaso, who had been serving as interim coach following the departure of Serbian Coach Milutin Micho Sredojevic, Put, a UEFA Pro licensed coach, is determined to lead the national team to new heights.
In response to his unveiling, Put succinctly expressed, “Please give me time, give me confidence. You will see a different national.”
At the age of 67, Put brings a wealth of coaching experience to the Uganda Cranes. Notably, he steered Burkina Faso to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, demonstrating his prowess in managing national teams across Africa.
With the imminent 2026 World Cup Qualifiers around the corner, Uganda’s campaign begins with two consecutive away games against Guinea and Somalia on November 17 and 21, hosted in Morocco.
Joining Put as part of the backroom staff are Sven De Wilde (Performance Manager), Mathieu Denis (Physical Fitness Coach), Gery Osste (Goalkeeping Coach), Martin Michiel (Physiotherapist), and Jelle Sevenhant (Video analyst).
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Regarding the selection process, Magogo highlighted the rigorous vetting of applications for the coach’s position. Despite numerous applicants, including a scarcity of Ugandan candidates, the choice of Put was made based on his extensive experience and expertise.
Explaining the decision not to appoint a local coach, Magogo emphasized that although two Ugandans applied, they did not meet FUFA’s required standards. He expressed that the organization could not headhunt local coaches as none had applied for the positions.
Put’s tenure arrives during a transitional phase for the Uganda Cranes, navigating the amalgamation of young talents and seasoned players. The new head coach will strive to address tactical issues and fortify team unity while ushering in a new chapter for the national squad.