This archive report was first published on 7 August 2019.
Gor Mahia coach Hassan Oktay's tenure at the Kenyan champions has come to an abrupt end, with the Turkish coach resigning on August 6, 2019, citing personal challenges in Europe.
According to sources, Oktay's resignation was triggered by the need to be close to his ailing parents and siblings in Turkey, a condition that had weighed down on him since joining the club in December 2018.
"Kindly accept my resignation as Gor Mahia FC head coach effective today, the sixth day of August 2019. As you are aware, the decision has been forced on me by the personal challenges I am facing here in Europe," Oktay wrote in his resignation letter to the club's hierarchy.
Oktay guided K'ogalo to a record-extending 18th league title last term and will be remembered for his contributions to the team.
His departure means the Kenyan champions have to move with speed to replace him before Sunday's first leg Caf Champions League first round clash against Burundi's Aigle Noir, as assistant coach Patrick Odhiambo does not have a Caf A coaching license required to lead a team in Caf competitions.
