Uganda names Paul Put as Cranes coach ahead of qualifiers

Put Paul unveiled as the head coach of the Uganda Cranes on a two-year renewable contract | FUFA

On Thursday, the Uganda football federation announced the appointment of Belgian coach Paul Joseph Put as their new head coach. Milutin Sredojevic was let go after the Cranes failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Put, 67, who signed a two-year deal comes with experience having spent most of his coaching career with African National teams and Clubs.

Under his leadership, Burkina Faso emerged as runners-up in the 2013 Afcon competition. He also assisted Gambia in earning an Afcon spot.

Speaking to the media Paul asked the Federation to give him enough time to help the team get back to competitive football.

“Please give me time, give me the confidence. You will see a different National team,” expressed the Coach.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers will provide the coach with his first opportunity to assemble a winning squad.

FUFA said over 150 coaches including two Ugandans applied for the job.

Uganda, Guinea, Somalia, Algeria, Mozambique, and Botswana are all placed in Group G. In their opening group game, the Ugandan Cranes will play Guinea before facing Somalia, his former squad.

He is expected to lead the Cranes to their first World Cup appearance when the qualifiers kick off as well as leading the East Africa side to their maiden African championship.

Julius Malulu November 3, 2023

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Julius Malulu is a Bolanews sports journalist and football analyst from Zambia. He previously worked for United Voice and Radio Christian Voice as a sports reporter. He specializes in writing exclusive pieces and conducting interviews. He has appeared as an analyst on Znbc TV's Talking Football show, the radio Christian Voice Back Page, Camnet TV, and the Everything Bola Podcast.