Former Kenya U20 forward elated ahead of FKFPL debut with Nairobi United

Nairobi United forward Syphas Otieno is relishing the prospect of making his FKF Premier League (FKFPL) debut after completing a move from 2025/26 National Super League champions Migori Youth FC.Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsThe youthful attacker enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the Migori-based side last season, finishing as the second-highest scorer in the NSL as the club secured promotion to the top flight.His impressive form earned him a move to ambitious Nairobi United, where he will now test himself against some of the country's established attackers.##NAJAVA_MECA_9956213##Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Otieno admitted he is eagerly looking forward to getting his maiden FKFPL campaign underway.“It’s my first time I am going to play in the top flight and I am more than determined to get it all started right. I have always dreamt of this because it is every player’s dream to play in the apex league in the country. I have been consistently putting in the work, and I am eagerly looking forward to it,” he said.The former Michael Olunga Football Academy (MOFA) forward acknowledged that leaving Migori Youth was not an easy decision, particularly after enjoying a successful campaign and having the opportunity to continue with the newly promoted side.CAFCC: Tusker seek second-round ticket in home leg against Sudanese outfitHowever, the prospect of taking on a fresh challenge and accelerating his development ultimately influenced his decision to make the switch.“It was a tough decision to make leaving Migori Youth for Nairobi United knowing very well I had the chance to continue my career at the club with playing time assured, but I wanted to grow and challenge myself more, and that formed part of my decision to leave the club,” he added.At United, however, Otieno knows he will have to earn his place in a highly competitive attacking department.Harambee Stars defender terminates contract with troubled Tunisian clubThe former Kenya U-20 international faces competition from Harambee Stars forward John Avire, who is returning to the Kenyan league after his stint in Egypt, Nigerian attacker Michael Karamor, who has previously featured for Kakamega Homeboyz, Sofapaka and Kisumu All Stars, former Gor Mahia forward and 2023/24 FKFPL Golden Boot winner Benson Omalla, as well as Ugandan forward Charles Waibi.Rather than being intimidated by the competition, Otieno believes maintaining the right mentality will be crucial as he seeks to translate his impressive NSL form to the top flight.##NAJAVA_MECA_9956212##“It’s a tough pool of experienced players and, being that I am just joining and getting into the league, I am aware of the tough task ahead," he said.“It comes with pressure playing for United, especially in the front line, and I understand the expectations that are going to come with it considering I had a good breakthrough season in the NSL.But I understand what I need to do, and that is staying positive, being mentally right and psychologically up to the task to face the competition, break through for first-team minutes and manage the pressure that comes with it."Akonnor reveals Gor Mahia plan to overturn Pyramids defeatOtieno will now hope to carry his goalscoring touch into the Premier League and secure regular playing time, having enjoyed considerable minutes during his spell at Migori Youth.Nairobi United, meanwhile, are set to begin their second season in the top flight with a home clash against KCB.