Former AFC Leopards striker Raymond Omondi has revealed the reason he never made it in football when he was based in the United Kingdom to pursue further studies.

A learned striker, Omondi rose to prominence during his time at Thika United, a now-defunct club. However, his journey to football stardom began in the dusty fields of Jamhuri, Nairobi, where he played estate football alongside notable players like Jesse Were, who later became Zesco United’s top scorer.

Omondi's passion for football ignited during his formative years, and he honed his skills in local competitions. 

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Despite setbacks, such as failing to impress at Mathare United, which had potential to grant him his first opportunity in the Kenya Premier League under Coach Stanley Okumbi, Omondi remained determined.

His breakthrough came when he secured a spot in the provincial league with Pirates (now Dimba Patriots) in 2009. His talent quickly garnered attention, leading to a deal with Kibera Celtic.

 Omondi's perseverance paid off when his elder brother, musician Dan Aceda, informed him about trials at Nairobi City Stars. Remarkably, he only needed 15 minutes to impress the coaches and secure a spot on the team.

Following a successful stint with Nairobi City Stars, Omondi joined Thika United, leaving a lasting impression before embarking on a journey to England. 

There, he pursued a Master's in Finance Management at the University of Central Lancashire, aiming to revitalize his football career in a foreign setting.

“Life there is hard. It was difficult for me because I did not get a team that would give me a permit to extend my stay there,” Omondi said in a watchalong with Pulse Sports.

It was in England that the big breakthrough in football came under unexpected circumstances as former AFC Leopards coach Stewart Hall came convincing him to link up with Ingwe after landing a coaching role at the club but his stay was cut short after three weeks with Robert Matano taking over.

However, he views the move as a blessing in disguise.

“When you do not have a job and you are a student, the bills take a toll on you. That is how I got an offer to come to AFC Leopards. But I have no regrets because I got a daughter from that.

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Source: PULSE Sport

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