Paul Put has expressed pride and gratitude after the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) renewed his contract as Uganda Cranes head coach until 2028.
“For the extension of the contract, I can say that I am very happy and proud,” Put said. “When I first signed, the President asked me to build a strong team for 2027, and this renewal shows that the Federation believes in my work and trusts the project. I always felt respected by the Federation, the players, and the fans. I want to continue delivering good football and strengthen the family we’ve built around the Cranes.”
FUFA officially confirmed the Belgian tactician’s contract renewal on Thursday in Kampala, emphasizing stability and continuity as Uganda prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) under the PAMOJA arrangement.
FUFA Chief Executive Officer Edgar Watson addressed recent speculation over Put’s future, noting that the new deal brings clarity and confidence heading into a crucial period.
“We have noticed anxiety in some sectors of the public concerning the Head Coach of the Uganda Cranes,” Watson said. “I am delighted to announce that FUFA has agreed with Coach Paul Put to a new two-and-a-half-year contract, effective immediately.”
Watson confirmed that Put will continue to oversee not only the senior Cranes team but also the CHAN and U23 sides, ensuring a unified technical approach and continuity in player development. He also revealed that Uganda will play two international friendlies this month against Chad and Morocco on November 14 and 18 respectively.
FUFA First Vice President Justus Mugisha said the decision to extend Put’s stay was based on performance and alignment with the federation’s long-term technical master plan.
“This is in line with our vision of building the number one team on and off the field,” Mugisha noted. “Under Put, we nearly qualified for the World Cup and reached the CHAN quarterfinals for the first time in our history. It was one of the easiest renewal decisions we have made.”
Mugisha also commended the Government of Uganda for its unwavering support of the national team. “We thank the Government, the Minister of Education and Sports Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, and H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the financial support that keeps the football cycle running.” With his future now secured, Paul Put turns his focus to building a competitive Cranes side capable of excelling in the upcoming AFCON qualifiers, the CHAN campaign, and ultimately, AFCON 2027 on home soil.
