Solito Bright Stars FC Part Ways with Head Coach Joseph Mutyaba After Dismal Start to 2024/25 Season as Ian Mutenda Takes Charge

*By John Kusolo*

In a decision that underscores the growing pressure on football managers in the competitive StarTimes Uganda Premier League, Soltilo Bright Stars Football Club has announced the mutual termination of Head Coach Joseph Mutyaba’s contract. The decision comes amid a disappointing start to the 2024/25 season, with the team struggling at the bottom of the league table, holding the 16th position, having yet to secure a win. So far, Bright Stars has drawn three matches, lost four, and failed to collect a full three points in any of their outings.

The club expressed gratitude to Coach Mutyaba for his hard work and dedication throughout his tenure. In an official statement, Soltilo Bright Stars FC thanked him for his contributions to the club and extended best wishes for his future endeavors.

As the club embarks on the search for a permanent replacement, Ian Mutenda, previously part of the technical setup, has been named Interim Head Coach. Mutenda will lead the team alongside an experienced technical support crew, including Danny Kirumira, Sula Sebunza, and Ibrahim Mugisha. Soltilo Bright Stars FC has expressed confidence that the interim team will bring stability and improved performance during this transitional period.

The club’s statement emphasized their commitment to supporting the technical team as they work to shift momentum. "We are confident that Ian Mutenda and his team will guide the team effectively and reinstate the competitive spirit of Soltilo Bright Stars FC as we look forward to a resurgence in form," the club added.

Joseph Mutyaba’s departure follows a rough start to the season for Soltilo Bright Stars. Positioned at the bottom of the league table after seven games, the team has faced difficulties both in attack and defense. The results have placed immense pressure on the club’s management to make changes before further damage to their season’s prospects.

This season’s competitive nature has seen clubs across the league adopt a less forgiving approach toward underperformance. Several other coaches have already faced similar consequences. Mutyaba joins a growing list of head coaches, including Brian Ssenyondo of Kitara FC, Richard Malinga of Mbale Heroes FC, Baker Mbowa of Express FC, Sadiq Sempigi of Lugazi FC, and Nikola Kavazovic of Vipers SC, who have all parted ways with their respective clubs this term.

As the search for a new head coach begins, the club's leadership has assured fans and stakeholders of their commitment to finding a highly qualified replacement. The club is expected to assess several potential candidates, both local and international, to ensure that the new head coach aligns with the club’s ambitions.

For the interim team, the immediate focus will be on improving the club's performance and moving out of the relegation zone. Soltilo Bright Stars FC’s fanbase is hopeful that the change in leadership will bring a positive shift, enabling the team to build momentum and secure vital points.

The StarTimes Uganda Premier League continues to highlight the intense competition and high expectations from both fans and management, with teams making swift changes to technical teams as they push for improved standings.