This archive report was first published on 14 July 2020.
Francis Kimanzi, the current Harambee Stars head coach, has spoken about his experience working under his predecessor Sebastien Migne, who he assisted as deputy coach until Migne's departure in August 2019.
Speaking on his time with Migne, Kimanzi acknowledged that they had differing opinions, but he appreciated the opportunity to learn from the Frenchman's approach and gain valuable experience in preparing the team for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
"This was my first time being a deputy coach, and I wanted to learn from someone else and gain experience," Kimanzi said. "I was happy assisting Sebastien as I was learning and trying to figure out different ways of working and also learning on how I make crucial decisions and him as well and the way he handles things. It was quite an important moment for me."
"This was my first time being a deputy coach because all the clubs I have been before I was the head coach. Sometimes you also want to be behind and learn from somebody else and see if you can gain some experience and also do a self-scan," Kimanzi says. Under Migne's leadership, Kenya achieved its highest ever FIFA ranking, and Kimanzi was tasked with coaching the junior teams. When Migne left, Kimanzi took over as head coach and is now looking to lead the team to a second consecutive Africa Cup of Nations appearance, which has been rescheduled to 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Kenya had picked back-to-back draws against Togo and Egypt in the opening two matches, and Kimanzi is waiting for the new dates to be fixed. In the meantime, he is trying to keep up with his players, who will benefit from European leagues resuming and gaining valuable match fitness.
