By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Goalkeeper Coach Arnold Origi says it’s an honour after taking over as Harambee Stars goalkeeper trainer
Origi is now shaping the next generation of goalkeepers with his wealth of experience and insights.
“Being back with the national team is a great feeling. I have had the privilege of representing Harambee Stars as a player, and now I’m here as a goalkeeper trainer. It’s a different role, but one I’ve grown to love,” said the Origi.
He added: “My move into coaching wasn’t planned. My role model was Gianluigi Buffon, who played well into his 40s, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. But after my last contract at FC Hord in Norway, finding a good offer became really tough. As you get older, it’s just how the game works. Luckily, I had completed my UEFA coaching badges for goalkeepers, and when I got the chance to train keepers at Östersund, I realised it was something I truly enjoyed. That’s where my coaching journey started.”
Origi expressed his excitement about working with Harambee Stars Interim Head Coach Francis Kimanzi, someone he knows well from his playing days.
“Coach Kimanzi is someone I respect a lot. I worked with him as a player, and I have always admired his approach to the game. He’s demanding, but that’s what this team needs to progress. It feels great to work with him again in a different capacity,” he added.
Origi is currently working with goalkeepers Farouk Shikalo (KCB FC), Byrne Omondi (Bandari FC), Sebastian Wekesa (Kariobangi Sharks), and Morgan Ambuka (Murang’a Seal), all of whom he sees as promising talents.
“These keepers are good, and I see them as more than just players, they are like younger brothers and friends to me. They’ve got potential, but there’s always room for improvement, and that’s my job here.”
He said they are targeting at building a solid team for CHAN.
“Winning the Mapinduzi Cup would be fantastic, but the bigger picture is building a solid team for CHAN. Playing on home soil brings extra pressure, and we have to get it right. The country loves football and is hungry for success. We saw it with the U17 girls qualifying for the World Cup – it shows what’s possible with the right support. I hope Kenyans will keep supporting us as we work towards building something special.”
