Express Football Club is facing a significant crisis as reports emerge that many players have been left without pay.
According to reliable sources, the players are receiving their salaries in sections, with a substantial number reportedly unpaid.
This ongoing financial struggle has been a recurring issue for the Red Eagles in recent years, and it has reemerged early in the current season.
Renowned sports journalist Fifi Phiona Pinky highlighted the situation during NBS Sport’s Premier Sport Sandabula Show on Wednesday, following the team’s recent 1-0 defeat to Lugazi at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo in the Uganda Premier League.
“I have learned that several Express players have not been paid in a while now,” Fifi stated. She further noted that “some senior players receive portions of their salaries while most junior counterparts continue to struggle.”
Fifi, who maintains close ties with stadium owner Hamis Kiggundu, revealed that club administrators reached out to him for assistance.
Kiggundu reportedly provided an undisclosed amount of money on top of the UGX 150 million sponsorship package from Sema Bet, which was received by club CEO Ashiraf Miiro.
Despite this financial boost, Express FC has yet to settle its stadium fees. Kiggundu has shown leniency toward the club, but the stadium administration regards this situation as a limitation to their business operations.
Express FC is required to pay a total of UGX 60 million, to be disbursed in two phases of UGX 30 million each.
The ongoing financial turmoil raises serious concerns about the future of Express FC and its players.
Fans and stakeholders alike will be closely monitoring how the club navigates these challenges in the weeks ahead.
