Uganda Makes a Bold Move, Keeping Coach Paul Put Until 2028!
KAMPALA, Nov. 6 (Xinhua) -- In a decision that has captured the attention of football fans across Africa, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has announced the extension of national team coach Paul Put's contract, keeping him at the helm until 2028.
Put, a seasoned coach with an impressive resume that includes leading national teams such as Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Kenya, officially signed the new contract on Thursday.
"I am thrilled to share that FUFA has reached an agreement with Coach Paul Put, renewing his role as Head Coach of the Uganda Cranes for the next two and a half years, effective immediately," stated FUFA CEO Edgar Watson during the formal announcement at FUFA Stadium-Kadiba in Kampala.
Watson emphasized that this contract renewal demonstrates the federation's trust in long-term stability and continuity, particularly as Uganda gears up to co-host the 2027 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He confirmed that Put will retain oversight not just of the senior national team but also of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad and the under-23 men's team, playing a central role in strategy formulation and player selection.
Coach Put expressed his gratitude and excitement for the extension, saying, "I am truly honored and proud to have this contract extended. When I first joined, the President entrusted me with the mission of building a strong and competitive team for the 2027 AFCON, and this gives me the platform to continue that journey."
Under Put's guidance, Uganda has enjoyed significant achievements. The Cranes secured qualification for the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled in Morocco from Dec. 21, 2025, to Jan. 18, 2026. Additionally, they finished second in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying group, narrowly missing the playoffs behind Algeria.
But here's where it gets controversial: some critics question whether keeping the same coach long-term ensures success or if it risks stagnation in the team's tactics and development. What do you think—does continuity outweigh the potential need for fresh ideas? The debate is open, and football fans are sure to have strong opinions. ■
