Mombasa United have made a bold statement ahead of the 2025/26 National Super League (NSL) season, completing a massive squad overhaul that includes 20 new signings — a clear indication that the coastal side means business.

Among the headline arrivals are Joel Kihara from Murang’a Seal FC and Ndeimiah Onchiri from Shabana FC, both bringing Kenya Premier League (KPL) experience to a team that narrowly escaped relegation last season, finishing just a position above the drop zone.

With their rivals Mombasa Stars and SS Assad both relegated from the NSL, United will now represent the coastal region alongside Mwatate United in the second tier — and they’ve wasted no time reinforcing their ranks.

In a raid on the now-relegated Mombasa Stars, United snatched up creative midfielders Abdulrahman Said ‘Aguero’ and Abdulrahman Ahmed ‘Malo Malo’, both expected to inject flair and attacking threat into the side.

From Kwale-based SS Assad, veteran striker Abdalla Mdeka and tough-tackling defender Juma Mwajao have also made the switch to Mombasa, further strengthening the squad’s spine.

Joining the squad are goalkeeper Richard Bacha, defenders Austin Nyagol, Felix Otieno, Mwinyi Mwajao, and Denis Mwabea. The midfield has been flooded with talent including Kevin Okoth, Hakim Msami, James Owino, Neville Etabale, adding depth and options in the middle of the park. Upfront, striker Duke Ombeta is expected to add goals.

Only eight players have been retained from last season’s team, including goalkeepers Kelvin Tila and Ouma Owino, defenders Ronald Okinyi, David Wanyama, and Yussuf Mwijo, midfielders Ramadhan Hamisi and Answar Shamun, and young forward Jack Watee.

Club CEO Nick Aruga confirmed the major squad shake-up is part of a bigger vision — to secure promotion to the KPL.

“We’ve brought in experienced players, including those from KPL sides. We learned some tough lessons last season, and we’re correcting those mistakes,” said Aruga.

He emphasized the club’s only goal for the new campaign is promotion, adding that the team is now under the experienced guidance of head coach Gilbert Selebwa.

“With a new squad and a solid technical bench, we believe this is the season Mombasa United will make history.”