Paul Put. File photo

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has officially renewed national team coach Paul Put’s contract until 2028, just days after his previous deal expired on November 2.

The extension comes as Uganda gears up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, which kicks off on December 21.

“I’m very happy and proud to continue,” Put said. “When I first signed, the President asked me to build a strong team for 2027. That remains my mission.”

Put emphasized his commitment to developing the team and delivering results.

“I want to keep building a united squad and play good football. We’ve made progress, and I believe we can achieve more,” he added.

The Belgian coach revealed that encouragement from his players and the respect he’s received in Uganda played a major role in his decision to stay.

“I received so many messages from players asking me to continue. I’ve always felt respected—by the Federation, the players, and the fans.”

Put first joined the Cranes in November 2023 and has been instrumental in rebuilding the team, guiding Uganda back to the AFCON stage for the first time since 2019.

Uganda has been drawn into Group C alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania. The Cranes will face Tunisia on December 23 at the Stade Olympique Annexe Complexe Prince Moulay Abdellah, then Tanzania on December 27, and wrap up the group against Nigeria on December 30 at the Complexe Sportif De Fès.

Under Put’s leadership, Uganda has regained discipline, confidence, and a renewed identity. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the Cranes finished second in their group with 18 points—tied with Mozambique but ahead on goal difference. However, a new CAF rule excluding results against the bottom team reduced Uganda’s tally to 12 points, ending their playoff hopes.

Despite that setback, Put’s work has earned praise across the continent. He has successfully blended foreign-based players like Jordan Obita, Toby Sibbick, and Elio Capradossi with local talents such as Hilary Mukundane and Nafian Alionzi. He’s also given opportunities to emerging stars including Mutwalib Mugolofa, Isima Magala, and James Bogere, laying a strong foundation for Uganda’s future.

Put’s coaching career spans Africa, Europe, and Asia. He previously led Burkina Faso to the AFCON 2013 final and has managed national teams including The Gambia, Guinea, Kenya, Jordan, and Congo, as well as clubs like USM Alger and Wydad Casablanca.

FUFA’s decision to retain Put reflects confidence in his long-term vision and ensures continuity as Uganda prepares for AFCON 2027 and the next round of World Cup qualifiers.

Put succeeded Milutin “Micho” Sredojević in November 2023, following Uganda’s failure to qualify for the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast. Since then, he has focused on instilling discipline, fostering teamwork, and building a united squad.