Kenya U20 winger Elly Owande has closed the curtain on his brief stay in the United Arab Emirates after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract with Dubai-based side Al Nasr SportPesa Blog can exclusively confirm.
The separation brings an early end to a move that had been widely viewed as a significant milestone in the youngster’s growing career.
The 20-year old attacker joined Al Nasr in September 2024 after successfully coming through a series of trials and friendly matches that showcased his speed, attacking intent, and ability in front of goal.
His performances convinced the club’s technical bench, leading to a three-year contract following his move from FKF National Super League outfit Migori Youth.
At the time, Al Nasr outlined a clear development plan, confirming that the winger would initially be attached to their U23 side as he adapted to the club’s structure and environment.
“Al-Nasr Football Company signs Kenyan player Elly Owande, who will join our U-23 team in the resident category,” read part of the club’s official announcement during his unveiling.
Kenya U20 winger Elly Owande terminates his contract with Al Nasr
However, just months into that journey, both player and club have agreed to part ways.
Although neither side has publicly detailed the reasons behind the decision, sources close to the situation indicate that the termination was amicable, with Owande granted the freedom to explore other options as he continues his development.
The winger has since returned to Kenya and is currently training locally as he weighs his next move, which could once again take him abroad.
Speaking shortly after completing his move to Al Nasr, Owande had expressed optimism and ambition about the opportunity ahead.
“This is a dream come true, and I am thrilled to join Al-Nasr. It’s a new chapter, and I’m determined to make it a successful one,” he said at the time. He also set himself clear targets, adding: “It’s a new adventure with high expectations, but I am confident of scoring ten goals in my first year, which is my main goal.”
Despite the early end to his Dubai stint, Owande’s football journey remains on an upward trajectory.
A product of Migori Youth, whom he joined at just nine years old, the winger has often credited the club for laying the foundation of his career. As part of his move to Al Nasr, Migori Youth had secured a 45 percent sell-on clause, reflecting the belief in his long-term value.
On the international scene, Owande has steadily risen through Kenya’s youth ranks.
He featured prominently for the Kenya U18 side that reached the final of the 2023 CECAFA U18 Championship, before going on to represent the U20 team at the Four Nations Tournament in Malawi in March 2024, where Kenya finished as finalists.
His progress also earned him a call-up to the Kenya U23 squad for the COSAFA Cup held in South Africa in July,2024.
The St.Antony Boys alumni was also part of Kenya’s Futsal Team that got eliminated by Namibia in the Futsal AFCON Qualifiers
With his situation at Al Nasr now resolved, Owande finds himself at a crossroads rather than a setback. Still young and with valuable exposure already gained, the winger remains one of Kenya’s most exciting attacking prospects, and attention will now shift to where the next chapter of his career will unfold.