Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor has explained the circumstances surrounding Siraj Mohammed's departure from the club, revealing that the defender's desire for regular playing time played a major role in his decision to leave.Mohammed completed a surprise move to fellow FKF Premier League side, Tusker FC, shortly after featuring for Gor Mahia from the recently concluded CECAFA Kagame Cup in Rwanda. Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsSpeaking to the club in an interview hours after the transfer was completed, Akonnor said he was surprised when Mohammed communicated his desire to leave, having previously assured the player that he would get an opportunity to compete for a place in the starting team. The Ghanaian tactician explained that Mohammed had initially sought a loan move in search of regular football, a request the club granted when he joined KCB. ##NAJAVA_MECA_901722##However, upon returning to Gor Mahia, the defender was assured that he remained part of Akonnor's plans.“When we were in Rwanda, Mike, the assistant captain, came to talk to me, but unfortunately we didn't talk. When we returned, he came with the word that Siraj wanted to leave and I was surprised because this guy wanted to go on loan because he wanted to play, which we granted him,” Akonnor said.“When he returned, he said he wanted to play and I gave him confidence and told him he had a chance to compete and play. When he told me he wanted to leave the club, I was surprised," he added. Babu identifies key weakness to fix ahead of Migori Youth’s FKFPL debutAkonnor stressed that he had no disagreement with the defender and opted not to stand in his way once Mohammed made it clear that he wanted a new challenge.“I have seen words going around, and when he felt he wanted to leave, I couldn't stand in his way. I just want to clarify that I don't have any issue with any player and I don't intend to do so,” he added.Mohammed's departure comes just days after he represented Gor Mahia at the CECAFA Kagame Cup following his return from his loan spell at KCB.The Harambee Stars defender joined Gor Mahia at the beginning of last season from Bandari after impressing with the national team during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).However, his time at the club failed to develop as expected, with the player spending part of his debut campaign at KCB.Why Gor Mahia coach is a happy man ahead of the 2026-2027 seasonHis exit leaves Gor Mahia with only one recognised natural left-back in youngster Bryton Onyona, potentially leaving Akonnor with a squad imbalance in the position as the club prepares for a demanding new season.With Mohammed now across the divide at Tusker, Gor Mahia could be forced back into the transfer market to strengthen the left-back position and provide adequate competition and cover.