By Gilbert Wandera
Rodriguez set to be highest paid player in local league
Gor Mahia have achieved a first in the country by becoming the first club to sign a Brazilian player.
The new signing Giovanni Rodriguez arrived in the country on Sunday afternoon and while the details of his deal remained under wraps Gor Mahia Secretary General George Bwana confirmed he will become the highest paid player in the country.
Independent sources have put his monthly salary at Sh150,000. “We are delighted to have a player of such calibre at Gor. He will be very important to our title ambitions this season,” said Bwana. Speaking through an interpreter, the player promised to score crucial goals for his new club and make a major impact at the team allowing them to become a formidable side in the region.
“I came to know about Gor Mahia through my Kenyan agent and from the Internet.
“According to what I have gathered, it is a good side with a great future. I promise to give my best,” he said.
He, however, cautioned Gor fans not to expect a miracle but to give him time to adapt to the Kenyan playing style.
The Brazilian said he was happy to be in Kenya, a country he has admired since his childhood.
“I promise to work hard for the team and the fans by entertaining them in the pitch, through hard work and bring stronger teamwork,” he said.
Rodriguez has played for Sheikh Jamal of Bangladesh, Rio Brangco Soccer Club and Atletico PR both of Brazil.
Elsewhere, Gor Mahia have signed former Mathare United winger Innocent Mutiso.
Mutiso left United last season when his five-year contract lapsed. He is expected to provide more options in the team’s midfield.
Gor have also been boasted by the return of Moses Odhiambo whose desire to play football in Oman was unsuccessful.
Odhiambo returned home on Sunday and trained with Gor at the City Stadium yesterday morning.
Gor Mahia have in the meantime announced completion of their new signings for the next season according to club secretary general George Bwana.
Bwana ruled out the signing of former Tusker midfielder Chrispine Olando who was on trials with the club since last week since the head coach had not seen him.
“We asked Olando to come for training so that our head coach can see him but he did not show up. There is no way we were going to have him in our camp without the consent of the coach.
“As it is we have closed our signing for the next season and will only consider additions in June,” he said.
Olando is among 13 players who were laid off by Tusker.
