Nairobi City Stars head coach Salim Babu has revealed why he chose to join the club, despite receiving attractive offers from other teams.
Babu has been absent from the Kenya Football Federation Premier League for nearly two months, following his dismissal by Kenya Police FC in late November 2024.
He took charge of City Stars after Nicholas Muyoti’s resignation earlier in January this year.
In his first two matches, Babu’s tenure has not yet yielded a win.
He suffered a 1-0 defeat to Bandari FC in his debut match in Mombasa, followed by another 1-0 loss to AFC Leopards over the weekend at Dandora Stadium.
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over 401 Million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
Despite the team’s current struggles, sitting just two spots above the relegation zone in the 18-team league, Babu stated that while there were several offers on the table, he chose to join Simba wa Nairobi because of their young, promising players and their playing style, which aligns with his own preferences.
“Yes, there were many offers, but I saw that City Stars has young players, and coaching them will be easier. So, I decided to join the club,” Babu explained after the AFC Leopards match.
“Additionally, they play the style of football I want.”
He further noted that the players are adapting well to his tactical approach “Babu ball”, and he is optimistic that, in his third match against Bidco United, the results will start to reflect his efforts.
“My tactical approach is progressing well. Even in Mombasa (against Bandari), we played well, and here (against AFC Leopards) we tried to dominate. But in the third match, the results will be different. I’m confident we will win,” he added.
ALSO READ: CAF announces draw date for 24/25 CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup quarterfinals
Babu also pointed out that the referee’s decisions against Leopards contributed to their defeat and expressed belief that they would improve in their next match against Bidco United.
“The referee’s decisions today were also a factor in our defeat, but I am confident that in our next match against Bidco, we will perform better,” he reiterated.
In their 19 matches so far this season, City Stars have secured four wins, five draws, and endured ten defeats, leaving them in 16th place.
They are set to face 17th-place Bidco United on Saturday, February 8th, followed by a match against 15th-place FC Talanta.
ALSO READ: William Muluya hails Shabana fans for spectacular turnout at Gusii Stadium
Nairobi City Stars next match
