Manzoki Reclaims No.9 Shirt as Vipers Confirm Squad Number Ahead of Kagame Cup Clash

Eight-time Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC have confirmed that returning striker Cesar Manzoki will wear the iconic No.9 shirt as he begins his second spell at the Kitende-based club.

The announcement comes ahead of Vipers’ CECAFA Kagame Cup encounter against Garde Republicaine on Friday, with the club handing Manzoki the same number he wore during his first stint at the Venoms. The forward previously became a key figure at Vipers while donning the No.9 jersey, and he will now look to revive that form as he returns to lead the club’s attacking line.

Manzoki’s return means the No.9 shirt changes ownership after being worn by Kenneth Kimera, who remains contracted to Vipers but is facing an uncertain future at the club. Kimera took over the number after joining from Wakiso Giants at the start of the 2024/25 season, but his time at Kitende has not unfolded as expected.

The striker struggled for regular playing time at Vipers, making only limited appearances during the season. After featuring in just two league matches for the Venoms against BUL FC and Lugazi FC, where he was introduced from the bench in the final stages of the games, Kimera was sent out on loan to Express FC during the second half of the campaign.

His spell at Express provided valuable playing time, with Kimera featuring more consistently and scoring five league goals under head coach Jimmy Kintu Mwera. His performances at Wankulukuku have attracted interest, with both Express FC and URA FC understood to be keen on securing his services ahead of the new season.

Kintu, who worked with Kimera during his loan spell at Express, is reportedly interested in reuniting with the striker at URA as the Tax Collectors continue to strengthen their squad. Kimera is also said to be open to a move away from Vipers in search of more regular first-team football.

Kimera announced himself on the Uganda Premier League scene during the 2023/24 season with Wakiso Giants, where his performances earned him a move to Vipers ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. However, competition for places at Kitende limited his opportunities as he struggled to establish himself among the club’s attacking options.

Since joining Vipers, Kimera has featured in 20 league matches, contributing two goals and one assist. With Manzoki now reclaiming the No.9 shirt and leading the attack, Kimera’s next move could determine the next chapter of his career as he searches for a platform to rediscover his best form.

For Manzoki, the return to the No.9 jersey marks the beginning of a fresh chapter. The striker will be hoping to reproduce the goalscoring form that made him a fan favourite during his first spell at Vipers as the Venoms compete on multiple fronts, including the CECAFA Kagame Cup and domestic competitions.