Gor Mahia part ways with manager Leonardo Neiva

Nairobi 

Wednesday, 13 November, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

KPL defending champions Gor Mahia have parted ways with head coach Leonardo Martin Neiva after just 5 months in charge. 

In a statement released on Wednesday, The club announced that the manager's 2-year deal was invoked by contractual clause, expressing gratitude for his time with the team. 

"The club extends its gratitude to Mr. Neiva for his commitment, hardwork and contribution to Gor Mahia FC during his time with the team" A part of the statement read.

Zedekiah Otieno alias Zikoh and Michael Nam have been appointed to oversee the upcoming club preparations and match responsibilities on interim basis as the management evaluates a suitable replacement. 

The 46-year old Brazilian faced furious fans and a chaotic scene at Machakos' Kenyatta Stadium on Saturday, as supporters heckled him relentlessly following a frustrating draw against Murang’a Seal.

The tense scene quickly escalated, captured in a video circulating online, as the frustrated fans descended on the Brazilian coach.

Under fire for recent poor performances, Neiva was swiftly escorted away by police as the crowd’s anger intensified. Officers were ultimately forced to use teargas to disperse the crowd after tensions boiled over.

Fans made no attempt to conceal their frustration post-match, demanding accountability from both the players and coaching staff. As emotions flared, the scene turned chaotic, with angry supporters calling for the coach’s immediate removal.

Earlier this week, the embattled Neiva had read the riot act to his team after a disappointing 2-1 loss to Nairobi City in their midweek Football Kenya Federation Premier League fixture. 

The loss against Nairobi City was the first for Gor in the league this season. The champions have seven points from four matches. 

Neiva, a CAF level A and Fifa Pro coach, previously coached Ugandan Vipers FC, Sudan Al Merrick and Tanzania Giants Yanga.