FIFA Puskas Award Nominee Omedi Declines Kitara Contract Extension Amid Interest from Egypt and Kenya

Fresh off his nomination for the prestigious FIFA Puskas Award, striker Denis Omedi appears set to leave Kitara FC after declining to extend his contract, The Nerve Africa has exclusively learned.

Omedi’s current deal with the Uganda Cup champions is set to expire at the end of the 2024/2025 season. While the club has offered him an improved contract, the player has chosen to see out his existing agreement as he explores opportunities abroad.

Sources close to Omedi reveal that the striker has attracted interest from Egyptian Premier League giants Pyramids FC and Kenyan champions Gor Mahia, among other suitors, and envisions his future outside Uganda.

“Denis (Omedi) will not sign a new contract at Kitara, as he has offers from Pyramids, Gor Mahia, and even clubs in Tanzania. Making it to the FIFA Puskas Award shortlist has significantly raised his value, and Kitara wants to capitalize on that by securing a new deal, but it’s not happening. At this point, there’s no chance he’ll stay beyond June next year,” a source close to the player told The Nerve Africa.

Kitara FC, however, is unwilling to lose their prized asset for free and is reportedly open to selling him during the January transfer window. Club president Deo Kasozi recently placed a valuation of €25,000 (approximately 100 million Ugandan Shillings) for any clubs looking to buy out the remaining six months of Omedi’s contract.

Omedi earned his FIFA Puskas Award nomination with an exquisite rabona goal against KCCA FC during the FUFA Super 8 tournament, a moment that has made headlines across Uganda and Africa.

The 30-year-old has had an impressive career trajectory. He finished second on the Uganda Premier League top scorers’ chart last season with 15 goals and added two goals in as many CAF Confederation Cup matches in September. His rise began during the 2022/23 FUFA Big League season, where he was the league’s top scorer with 24 goals while playing for Booma FC.

At the international level, Omedi has quickly established himself as a key player for the Uganda Cranes since making his debut last year. He has earned 12 caps, contributing three goals and two assists.

With growing interest from top African clubs and his rising reputation on the global stage, Omedi’s next move will undoubtedly be one to watch.