French Coach Julien Mette Takes Over Struggling Tusker FC With Immediate Test Against Shabana

2026-02-21 community

Nairobi, 21 February 2026
Tusker FC has appointed 44-year-old French tactician Julien Mette as their new head coach, marking the club’s first European appointment since 1990. The 13-time Kenyan Premier League champions currently sit ninth in the table after eight defeats in 20 matches under previous coach Charles Okere. Mette, who begins his tenure tomorrow against Shabana FC at Gusii Stadium, has cautioned supporters against expecting instant transformation, requesting five matches to implement his vision and change the team’s mentality.

A Measured Approach to Revival

The French tactician has set realistic expectations for his debut, warning supporters not to anticipate dramatic immediate changes. “People should not expect us to win 5-0 or something and make a complete change from the results of the previous games,” Mette explained during his introduction [1]. His methodical approach reflects an understanding of the challenges facing a team that has struggled for consistency this season, with the club having suffered eight losses from their 20 league fixtures under previous management [1]. The new coach has allocated himself a five-match window to fully implement his tactical philosophy, stating: “I have given myself five games to completely change the outlook of the team, and so we will go step by step” [1].

Building Foundations Through Communication

Mette’s initial focus has centred on establishing strong communication channels with his squad, recognising that understanding between coach and players forms the bedrock of successful tactical implementation. “This week I have had a lot of sessions to talk and to listen, because we want to lay the foundation and understand each other,” the 44-year-old revealed [1]. His approach addresses what he identifies as a fundamental issue within the current squad: a lack of confidence and self-expression among players who appear hesitant to showcase their abilities on the pitch [1]. The former Djibouti national team coach believes that changing the team’s mentality represents a crucial first step in their rehabilitation, particularly given the psychological impact of their recent poor run of results.

Historic Appointment Amid Organisational Change

Mette’s appointment carries historical significance as Tusker FC’s first European coach since 1990, marking a departure from the club’s traditional recruitment patterns [1]. The decision to bring in foreign expertise also breaks the club’s recent stability in coaching appointments, as they had not changed managers mid-season since Robert Matano’s departure in 2018 [1]. Supporting Mette in his new role is Anthony ‘Modo’ Kimani, who joins as assistant coach, providing local knowledge and experience to complement the Frenchman’s tactical expertise [1][5]. This coaching partnership aims to bridge any cultural gaps whilst ensuring continuity in understanding Kenyan football dynamics.

Immediate Test Against Determined Opposition

The timing of Mette’s first match presents both opportunity and challenge, as Shabana FC at Gusii Stadium will provide an immediate gauge of his initial impact [1]. The fixture, scheduled for Saturday afternoon, comes just days after Tusker’s disappointing 3-1 defeat to Mathare United on 13 February in Nairobi, which ultimately sealed Charles Okere’s fate [1]. Okere’s dismissal followed mounting pressure from supporters and reports that he had lost the confidence of the dressing room, creating an atmosphere that demanded immediate change [1]. For Mette, the Shabana encounter represents more than just three points; it offers the first opportunity to demonstrate that his patient, systematic approach can begin to restore confidence and tactical discipline to a team that has underperformed expectations this season.

Bronnen

Kenyan football Tusker FC