I will come back to pay my debts in full - Anthony Kimani's emotional goodbye to AFC Leopards

AFC Leopards Coach Anthony Kimani after his team lost 1-0 in favour of Wazito FC during the FKF Premier League match at Utali Club grounds on Saturday, Jan 10, 2021. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Former AFC Leopards interim coach Anthony Kimani has paid tribute to his club after tendering his resignation letter on Wednesday.

Through his social media accounts, Kimani, who has played and coached the club, said he left the club in goodwill and to pursue "other interests."

The former Harambee Stars defender thanked his bosses, fans, players and members of the technical bench in his moving letter to the club he posted.

“It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to AFC Leopards, a club that has given me so much, both as a player and most recently as a coach.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to serve this great club. Today, I leave here knowing more than when I arrived and it's all because of you,” Kimani said.

“I would like to thank the club, led by the Chairman Dr. Dan Shikanda, SG Oliver Shikuku, Treasurer Maurice Chichi and CEO Victor Bwibo. You gave me an opportunity to serve this great club and I will forever be grateful.”

Kimani left Ingwe after guiding them to a barren draw against their arch rivals Gor Mahia in the “Mashemeji” Derby played on Sunday at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in Nairobi.

AFC Leopards Coach Anthony Kimani after his team lost 1-0 in favour of Wazito FC during the FKF Premier League match at Utali Club grounds on Saturday, Jan 10, 2021. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

He asked for forgiveness from the club’s community following his decision to resign from the position and promised to return to the club in future.

“To those that I might have disappointed, I beg for your forgiveness and ask for your blessings as I move on. You will forever remain in my heart. It’s the end of a chapter, but certainly not the end of the story, I am indebted to you and one day, I will come back to pay my debts in full,” said the youthful tactician. 

Kimani, 31, was appointed Leopards assistant coach in March 2019.

He then first took charge of Ingwe on an interim basis when Rwandan tactician Casa Mbungo, now at Bandari, left in December 2019 until Tomas Trucha was appointed before the current season began.

He again assumed the roles when Trucha resigned after he had led AFC Leopards to an opening 2-1 win against Tusker.

Previously, he led Mathare United to win the 2008 KPL title as the club captain.

Kimani also captained Leopards and Harambee Stars in 2013 and at the 2009 Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup respectively. 

By AFP 22 mins ago
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