As the Rwanda Premier League draws close to half season, Times Sports looks at the players who were expected to shine at their respective clubs but failed to live up to the hype.Rwanda Premier League: Which players flopped this season?
These players failed to cope up with the expectations after moving to a bigger club. Despite availability of modern scouting techniques that can limit the chances of big disappointments, transfers are still puzzling.
Clubs that spent huge amounts have from time to time not been able to get value for their money. Many seemingly promising footballers have flopped and seen their careers sliding down the slope after transfers to top clubs.
Let’s take a look at some of the footballers whose careers dipped after moves to top clubs.
1. Abdul Rwatubyaye- Rayon Sports
After leading the way as the first choice centre defender at FC Shkupi before having problems with injuries, Abdul Rwatubyaye made the move to Rwanda in the summer of 2022. Rayon expected to reinforce their defence, under Francis Haringingo, with the acquisition of Rwandan giant Rwatubyaye.
However, expectations were not met ever since Rwatubyaye moved to the Rwanda Premier League. Rwatubyaye has not been able to replicate performances from the past years.
He made only two appearances for Rayon and will not be as influential in terms of squad presence this season, which has directly cost his development. He played for Isonga, APR, Sporting Kansas City, Swope Park Rangers, Colorado Rapids, Colorado Switchbacks and Shkupi.
2. Jean Baptiste ‘Migi’ Mugiraneza-Police
Police’s quest for a defensive midfielder, preferably as competition to Fabrice Twagizimana and other midfielders, ended after getting Migi in 2022. Migi made his way to the Kicukiro-based side aiming to continue at the peak and hopefully, make his mark in a Blaugrana shirt.
Despite spontaneous good performances at KMC in Tanzania, Mugiraneza’s Police career was one to forget. Poor performance kept preventing him from helping his team. Challenged by the new playing style, Migi had difficulties adapting from day one.
3. Ramadhan Kabwili – Rayon Sports
The Tanzanian goalkeeper who played for Yanga before joining Rayon Sports at the start of the season had problems when coach Francis Haringingo didn’t trust him. Kabwili was brought in to be first choice, but he disappointed and was replaced by Adolphe Hakizimana.
5. Aboubacar Uwiduhaye – APR FC
The right-back signed by APR FC from Police FC was a controversial signing as his name was not widely known. Since his arrival at APR FC, he has never got a chance to play and therefore many people believed that he flopped.
Ever since APR FC landed the right back, things took a turn for the worse. Uwiduhaye’s recurring poor performance has not only hindered his playing time, but his development as well. He is now trying to establish himself in the team and convert his potential into a solid set of performances.
6. Edward Satulo-AS Kigali
Rock solid defender Edward Satulo signed a two-year deal with AS Kigali as a free agent.
When he joined the City of Kigali-sponsored side he remarked: “I want to perform to the best of my expectation and remain professional at all times.”
Saluto never settled down and did not find enough opportunities to leave a mark.
7. Gilbert Dusengimana – AS Kigali
AS Kigali bought him from Kiyovu Sports to fill the gap of Christian Ishimwe who went to APR FC. But Dusengimana made no impact in the club and was replaced by Jean Paul Ahoyikuye. Things, however, have not turned out as per expectations, so far. In addition, added competition in the squad served to accentuate the struggles.
8. Ndiaye Bissirou – Kiyovu Sports
The Senegalese midfielder joined Kiyovu this season and was expected to play a part in the title race, but he missed out on play time as he went for a trial in Europe.
He was a hot prospect when he started firing, quite ruthlessly, for Kiyovu. He was known for his goal scoring prowess, and ability to be incisive in front of the box. It was this very ability that made the Mumena-based club lure him.
9. Issa Bigirimana – Espoir FC
Having played for APR FC and helped them win trophies, having played in Tanzania and Zambia, Espoir FC felt it was good to buy a striker who can help them solve the problem of inconsistency, but now his playing time is a problem.
Despite the initial good performances, Bigirimana never looked to be himself. In addition, added tensions regarding his fitness and playing him out of position, mounted pressure upon him. Espoir was not a success for him.
10. Landry Ndikumana
The Burundian striker signed a two-year contract with AS Kigali, only to lose time until AS Kigali released him, and he went on trial in Bangladesh. The Burundian striker joined Muktijoddha Sangasad KC.
He previously played for Vital’O, Mbarara City, Stand United, Sunrise, Inter Stars and Kayanza United.
11. Vlasilav Klomishin – Kiyovu Sports
When he was brought in many people immediately saw the Russian striker as someone who will do miracles. He did not use the time he was given well, and many were surprised to hear Kiyovu Sports, on November 18, announcing that he had failed the three-month trial and was released.
12. Boubacar Traore – Rayon Sports
He is a striker from Mali that Rayon Sports signed in August. Things, however, have not turned out as expected. Traore’s Rayon career has been mired by injuries and little play time.
In addition, added competition in the squad has served to accentuate his struggles. Consequently, the attacker is contemplating leaving the Blues.
