Oliech’s Sh350,000 salary at Gor divides Kenyans

Kenya soccer giants Gor Mahia FC on Wednesday announced the capture of former Harambee Stars striker Dennis Oliech on a two-year deal.

It later emerged that he would earn Sh350,000 per month, a figure that elicited a sharp debate online.

The 33-year-old was once the darling of local soccer fans due to his sheer power and pace on the pitch.

His speed was a nightmare for defenders and had a venomous shot in his locker.

Having previously played in France with former powerhouses Auxerre and Nantes, Gor explained that they brought him on board to solve their crisis upfront although some fans are not entirely convinced.

For a man of his stature, Sh350,000 is not a lot of money – considering he earned way much more previously – but the pressure is on for him to perform.

Others argued that Oliech should leave football to upcoming talents, comparing his signature to the appointment of Moody Awori to government.

“Gor Mahia signing Denis Oliech (in his sunset years) for a whopping monthly salary of 350K plus 3.5M in transfer fee is akin to Uhuru Kenyatta appointment of Moody Awuor back to govt. long after retiring.

“Our youths are beaten even in their own stronghold,” wrote one netizen.

“I hope he makes a good impact,” added another.

“PR does not play football. Oliech is old and slow now and will add no value to the team,” wrote another fan.

Staunch fans, however, sided with the striker, lauding him as an important addition to the team.

“People concentrating on @OfficialGMFC Denis Oliech salary,give the dude a break,ni yake.”

“He is the same age as the likes of Rooney Cr7 still playing top knoch football for me this is a great signing for Kogalo.”

“Oliech might not be the player he once was, but his leadership and mentorship for young players added to the commercial potential for Gor as a brand is far too great to ignore.”

His new club expressed optimism after signing him and Chairman Ambrose Rachier said: ”We signed Oliech on recommendation of the technical bench. They have assessed him and believe he’s a player who will add value to the squad.

“In striking we had a weakness and the signing of Dennis Oliech is meant to fill the gap. Of course, there are different views on his signing but I’m working with the recommendation of the technical bench. He is the player with the quality and we wish him well at Gor Mahia.”