Bandari's Farouk Shikalo seals move to Ethiopian giants Saint George
Shikalo’s move is part of a wave of international transfers sparked by Kenya’s impressive CHAN campaign, which also saw Ryan Ogam join Austrian Bundesliga side Wolfsberger AC, and Alphonse Omija sign for Étoile Sportive du Sahel in Tunisia.
Harambee Stars goalkeeper Farouk Shikalo has completed a move to Ethiopian Premier League giants Saint George on a one-year deal from Bandari FC, ahead of their 2018 season.
The 31-year-old becomes only the second Kenyan goalkeeper to sign for the Addis Ababa-based club, following in the footsteps of Patrick Matasi.
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Shikalo, a former Yanga SC and Bandari shot-stopper, was one of Kenya’s standout performers during the recent CHAN tournament, notably impressing in the 1-0 victory over Zambia, where his crucial saves helped Harambee Stars reach the quarterfinals.
The custodian in one of the interviews explained that his decision was influenced by better pay and increased exposure, citing the Ethiopian Premier League’s strong television coverage across Africa as a key attraction.
Shikalo’s move is part of a wave of international transfers sparked by Kenya’s impressive CHAN campaign, which also saw Ryan Ogam join Austrian Bundesliga side Wolfsberger AC, and Alphonse Omija sign for Étoile Sportive du Sahel in Tunisia.
Back home, Gor Mahia have also strengthened their squad with several signings, including Bryne Omondi, Michael Kibwage, Lewis Bandi, and Mohammed Siraj.
Founded in 1935, Saint George SC is Ethiopia’s most successful football club, boasting a record number of league titles. Based in Addis Ababa, the club is regarded as a symbol of national pride and football excellence across the continent.
In a statement confirming the new arrivals, the club announced:
“Our club, Saint George, has signed two goalkeepers. The Horsemen, who are strengthening our team for the 2018 E.C. season, have signed Kenya national team goalkeeper Faruk Shikalo and Kok Kuwait, who spent last year in Addis Ababa. We wish you a happy racing year.”
Shikalo later took to social media to celebrate the move, writing “Mungu dereva,” Swahili for “God is the driver.”
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