Kenyan international Clifton Miheso has explained his decision to put his football career on hold and pursue a Master’s degree in Sports Management.Miheso noted that he is preparing for life after retirement while expanding his involvement in sports development.Download our MozzartSport App For More NewsThe 33-year-old winger secured a full scholarship to study at the renowned Johan Cruyff Institute in the Netherlands, a move he believes will equip him with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the next chapter of his career beyond the pitch.Miheso had attracted interest from FKF Premier League sides Bandari FC and Kariobangi Sharks during the latest transfer window but opted against signing for either club as he prioritises his academic pursuits.However, the former Harambee Stars international has not ruled out a return to competitive football in January, when he expects to have completed most of his academic units. A suitable offer could see him resume his playing career.Clifton Miheso on lessons football can borrow from rugby to boost fan attendance“I have been involved in sports for the longest time, so I felt that pursuing a Master’s degree in Sports would benefit me both as a footballer and in my future career. Football is a short career, and I am trying to prepare myself for what comes next after retirement,” Miheso said.Beyond his playing career, Miheso is involved in initiatives aimed at nurturing young talent and creating opportunities for children through sports.He runs Kick To Victory, a sports academy, and Goal Dream KE, an organisation focused on inspiring children in underprivileged communities. He believes the knowledge gained from his studies will strengthen these initiatives and help him make a greater impact.“It will also help me with the work I am doing on the side. I believe combining these initiatives with my education will be very beneficial,” he added.##NAJAVA_MECA_10066857##Miheso is currently undertaking the programme remotely, with plans to travel to the Netherlands for his graduation. The blended learning format has allowed him to pursue his academic goals while managing his other commitments.“I am currently taking online classes. The time will come when I travel to the Netherlands for my graduation, but for now, I am studying remotely. It is a blended course, and I am enjoying the experience. It has been great so far,” he explained.For Miheso, the decision to return to the classroom is part of a long-term plan rather than a reaction to his current break from football. He says he has been preparing for retirement for years, having recognised the need to build a future beyond his playing days.NSL 2026/27: Meet the 20 teams, coaches, home grounds, and promotion ambitions“I have been preparing for retirement for a long time because I do not want to find myself in a dilemma, wondering what to do once my football career comes to an end,” he said.The winger revealed that his involvement in community and sports development initiatives dates back several years, with the projects taking shape while he was still playing for Gor Mahia.He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of having alternative sources of income and career options, particularly for professional footballers whose careers can be disrupted by circumstances beyond their control.“The initiatives I am involved in are not new; I have been working on them for years. I started while I was at Gor Mahia, and the COVID-19 pandemic opened many people's eyes to the importance of having something beyond football,” Miheso noted.Billions Kenya's likely to splash in hosting Bayern vs Ajax friendly in NairobiHe also urged fellow footballers to take a proactive approach to planning for life after retirement, warning that injuries and other unforeseen circumstances can bring playing careers to an abrupt end.“I think footballers should prepare for life after the game. They need to plan because football is a short career, and you never know what might happen. Injuries and other unforeseen circumstances can bring your career to an abrupt end. That is why it is important to prepare early,” he concluded.