Francis Kahata Fuels KCB FC's FKF Premier League Title Ambitions

Experienced midfielder Francis Kahata believes he still has plenty to offer at the top level and is confident he can help KCB FC push for a strong finish, including mounting a serious FKF Premier League title challenge this season. Kahata, a Harambee Stars international, joined the bankers during the mid-season transfer window and made his debut almost immediately, coming on at half-time against his former club, Kenya Police FC. His arrival signals KCB’s intent to strengthen their squad as they chase consistency in a tightly contested league. “I would not have joined KCB if I did not believe they are capable of fighting for the title,” Kahata said. “This is a team with ambition, quality players and a clear plan, and that is what convinced me.” The former Gor Mahia and Simba SC midfielder says his decision was not rushed. He had followed KCB closely and admired their structure and playing personnel. “I have been following KCB closely for some time,” Kahata said. “They are organised, they play good football, and they have players who understand what it takes to compete at the top.” He added that the club’s competitive mindset stands out. “This is not a team that is just happy to be in the league. They want more. They want to win matches, they want to challenge, and as a player, that excites you.” Kahata believes his experience can make the difference in tight moments. “I bring experience, calmness and creativity,” he said. “When you combine that with the energy of the younger players here, you get a team that can hurt opponents.” KCB head coach Robert Matano has been clear about why the club moved quickly to sign Kahata, making him their first mid-season addition. “He is an experienced creative player who will add value to our attacking third,” Matano said after Kahata’s debut. “We know he needs time, but his quality is unquestionable.” Kahata appreciates the honesty from the technical bench. “The coach was very open with me,” he said. “He told me not to rush, to settle in, and to focus on helping the team step by step.” After spending more than six months without competitive football, Kahata knows patience is key. “I am not here to promise magic in one or two games,” he said. “Football does not work like that. What I can promise is commitment and improvement every week.” Born on May 4, 1996, Kahata has built a career shaped by both local and international experiences. He came through the ranks at Thika United before moving abroad to Albania, where he joined KF Tirana on loan in 2021. “That period in Albania changed me,” Kahata said. “Playing in a different environment teaches you discipline and mental strength.” At Tirana, he scored crucial goals and helped the club survive in the Albanian Superliga. “I learned how to handle pressure away from home,” he said. “Those lessons stay with you forever.” Back in Kenya, his spells at Gor Mahia and later Simba SC sharpened his competitive edge. “At big clubs, every match feels like a final,” Kahata said. “That is the mentality I bring to KCB.” Currently seventh on the table with 22 points, KCB are still within touching distance of the top sides. Kahata believes the standings do not tell the full story. “The table can lie sometimes,” he said. “What matters is how you play and how you finish the season.” He is convinced KCB can close the gap. “We have dropped points we should not have, but that is football,” Kahata said. “What is important is how we respond from now.” Kahata sees his role as a connector in midfield. “I want to help us control games better,” he said. “When you control the game, you increase your chances of winning.” Beyond his technical ability, Kahata sees leadership as part of his responsibility. “I have played many games at a high level,” he said. “It is my duty to guide the younger players, especially in difficult moments.” He believes small details can shape a title push. “Sometimes it is not about talent,” Kahata said. “It is about decision-making, concentration and belief.” That belief, he insists, is growing within the KCB dressing room. “The mood in the team is positive,” he said. “Everyone believes we can achieve something special.” He remains clear about his mission. “I did not come here to be average,” he said. “I came here to compete, to win, and to help KCB reach their goals.”