Ulinzi Stars are banking on a change in mentality and a younger squad to avoid another relegation battle after narrowly surviving the 2025/2026 SportPesa Premier League season.
Head coach Mulinge Ndeto wants the soldiers to retain their defensive discipline while rediscovering the attacking identity that has traditionally defined the club.
“Ulinzi Stars need to embrace their attacking DNA,” Ndeto said, challenging his players to be more adventurous in the final third. The club has since made significant changes to its squad, with several experienced players leaving as the technical bench seeks greater depth and fresh energy.
Captain Brian Birgen believes last season’s struggles have provided valuable lessons as the team prepares for a demanding new campaign. “We survived by a whisker, but we are looking forward to a much better and revamped season,” Birgen said.
Ulinzi have stepped up their pre-season programme, including a training stint in Kibra, Nairobi, as they work on tactical weaknesses and build understanding among the new-look squad. They have also played friendly matches against Nairobi United, Kenya Navy and Kariobangi Sharks.
Birgen said the preparations are to ensure they do not repeat the mistakes that left them fighting for top-flight survival. “We are laying down the foundations,” he said, pointing to the need to improve tactically while integrating the new players into the squad.
Ndeto has also called for greater urgency from his charges, particularly after last season’s close shave. He wants every competitive fixture approached with the intensity required in a relegation fight. “The remaining fixtures must be approached like finals,” he said.
The rebuilding has brought several young players into the squad, among them midfielders Roy Onyango and Walter Wafula. Their integration will be crucial as the soldiers look to balance youthful energy with the experience of established players.
Birgen believes senior members of the squad have a responsibility to help the newcomers understand the demands of playing for the military side. “Our job as senior players is to guide the younger players and help them understand what is expected at Ulinzi,” he said.
Ndeto remains confident that the youthful squad can handle the demands of top-flight football despite its limited experience. “Despite having a young squad, I know we are up to the task,” he said.
The coach has placed particular emphasis on discipline, resilience and mental strength, qualities he considers essential if Ulinzi are to withstand the league pressure. “Discipline, resilience and mental strength have to be our cornerstones,” Ndeto said.
The lessons of last season remain fresh for Birgen, who wants the team to use the experience as motivation rather than allow it to become a burden.
“We have to make sure the mistakes we made last season do not follow us into the new campaign,” he said. Ulinzi’s opening fixtures against Tusker and Kakamega Homeboyz were postponed following the staggered start to the 2026/2027 league season. Their first listed assignment is now against Mara Sugar on September 12 at 2 pm.
For Ndeto, improving Ulinzi’s attacking output will be central to their prospects. The Soldiers’ defensive organisation has traditionally been one of their strengths, but he wants greater efficiency in front of goal. “We need a stronger cutting edge,” he said.
Birgen is encouraged by the work being done during pre-season and believes it can translate into improved results once the league gets underway.
“We believe the work we are putting in during pre-season will help us have a much better campaign,” he said. After coming close to relegation last season, Ulinzi now face the task of turning their squad overhaul and pre-season preparations into consistent performances when the league finally gets underway.
