NEC has officially won the race for Alpha Thierry Ssali, signing the highly sought-after 20-year-old winger on a two-year contract.
The Proline Academy graduate, who is the son of renowned musician Bebe Cool, joins the Diehards after deciding to part ways with Express during the January transfer window.
A Transfer Saga
Ssali’s transfer has been one of the most talked-about stories in Ugandan football this January.
The youngster had several suitors, including URA and Wakiso Giants, but NEC made swift and decisive moves to secure his signature.
This move comes after Ssali opted to leave Express, where a special clause in his contract allowed him to seek opportunities elsewhere for more playing time.
Express had signed the talented winger in August 2023 on a two-year contract.
However, limited opportunities at the club led to a mutual decision for him to seek a fresh challenge.
Ssali featured in 10 games for the Red Eagles this season, starting six times and coming off the bench in four matches.
He scored three goals in the Express colours which all came during the 2023/24 campaign.
Why NEC?
NEC’s growing reputation and strong position in the Uganda Premier League likely played a key role in Thierry’s decision.
Currently, NEC sits second on the UPL log with 33 points, just one point behind leaders Vipers.
With the club fighting for their maiden UPL title, Ssali has joined a team with strong ambitions and a solid foundation.
NEC head coach Hussein Mbalangu will be counting on Ssali to bolster his attacking options as the team resumes their campaign on February 13 with a crucial home match against KCCA at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.
Challenges Ahead
Breaking into NEC’s first team won’t be easy for Ssali.
He will face stiff competition from established players like James Jarieko, one of NEC’s most reliable and important wingers.
For Ssali, earning a starting spot will require consistent effort and standout performances.
The Spain Connection
Bebe Cool had recently revealed that Ssali was in Spain undergoing trials with Khaled Catalunya Management.
While those trials did not result in an immediate move, Ssali’s father has always reiterated his dream of seeing his son join the professional ranks abroad.
NEC’s management is likely to have included a clause in his contract to facilitate a potential move to an international club in the future.
A Fresh Start
For Ssali, this move marks a fresh start and an opportunity to prove his worth in a competitive team.
As NEC aims to close the gap on Vipers and claim the UPL title, Ssali’s arrival could be a key addition to their squad.
Ssali’s immediate focus will be on settling in at NEC and contributing to their title push.
Whether he makes his debut against KCCA on February 13 remains to be seen, but his talent and hunger for success could make him a valuable asset for the Diehards.
