The Alphas coaching team have assembled a 26-player squad blending continuity, new signings and homegrown talent as they prepare for the 2026/27 campaign, with captain James Macharia set to lead the team.

The squad comprises three goalkeepers, seven defenders, eight midfielders and seven forwards. The composition gives the coaching staff options across the pitch, while the recruitment strategy highlights the club's intention to maintain continuity within the senior team and strengthen it with fresh talent.

Among the key developments is the appointment of James Macharia as captain for the new season, the return of defender Christopher Ndung'u to the senior setup and the promotion of midfielder Bidan Atoni from Kahawa Pride Mapogo, the club's Under-21 side.

Goalkeepers: Karani retained as new faces arrive

Miguel Karani headlines a three-man goalkeeping department after renewing his contract with the club. Granton Onyango joins from Kiambiu Warriors FC, while Ian Otieno arrives from Ngere Young Stars to complete the goalkeeping group.

The two new arrivals will have an opportunity to compete for places alongside Karani as the team prepares for the demands of the season after Junior Munyao left the club and Mohammed Nguvu went on loan to National Super League side Luanda Villa.

Defence: Macharia takes the armband as Ndung'u returns

The defensive unit features seven players, with five established members renewing their contracts and Cedric Makambi and Christopher Ndung'u adding distinctive stories to the group.

Gideon Etyang, Benson Goved, George Ouma and Sadiki Otieno have all renewed their contracts, ensuring the club retains several familiar faces at the back.

Macharia has also committed his future to the club and will captain the team in 2026/27. His appointment gives the defensive group an identifiable leader as the Pride prepare for the new campaign.

One of the most notable developments is Ndung'u's return to the senior team. The defender spent a season with the Under-21 side. Now a Form Four candidate at St Peter's Mumias High School, Ndung'u is expected to rejoin the team at the end of the year after completing his national examinations.

The club first identified him at the age of 13 and has continued to develop him since then. His return represents another step in a journey shaped by the club's investment in young players, although his availability will depend on the timing of his examinations.

Makambi brings another example of the Pride's development pathway. He joined the club at nine years old as a goalkeeper but has since transitioned into a defender capable of playing across the back line.

Makambi was Mapogo's highest points contributor last season. His versatility, aerial ability and willingness to advance when opportunities arise make him an interesting addition to the defensive options.

His move into the senior team follows years of development within the club's youth ranks, and the Pride will hope he can translate his performances at youth level into an impact with the Alphas.

Midfield: Atoni leads the next generation

With eight players, midfield is the largest department in the squad. The group combines contract renewals, external recruitment and a promotion from the club's Under-21 setup.

The promotion of Bidan Atoni is one of the standout stories of the squad announcement.

Atoni joined the Pride at eight years old and has progressed through four age groups over 11 years before earning his place in the senior team. He now moves from Mapogo to the Alphas, completing a significant milestone in his development.

The club identifies his quick feet, set-piece ability and versatility across attacking positions as key strengths. His promotion also provides a clear example of the pathway from the club's youth structure to the senior side.

Atoni's elevation is particularly significant because it demonstrates how the club can use its development system to supplement senior recruitment rather than relying exclusively on players brought in from elsewhere.

The midfield also welcomes Nobert Simiyu, who joins from Eldoret Technical; Baraka Noor, recruited from Ngere Young Stars; and Kuku Adhuu, who arrives from Kakuma Pride FC.

Their arrival adds new options to the department, although their respective roles and how they will fit into the team's tactical setup remain to be established during preparations and competition.

Marvin Oketch, Austin Ochieng and club legend Robert Munyora have renewed their contracts, providing further continuity within the squad.

James Nyokper Miakol, who joins from Church Boyz FC, completes the midfield unit.

Attack: Seven forwards provide fresh options

The forward line comprises seven players, with four contract renewals and three arrivals from other clubs.

Bruno Maima joins from Maaji Mazuri FC, while Hamisi Asende arrives from Kakuma Pride FC and Martin Kamau joins from FC Reigns.

Their recruitment introduces fresh options to the attacking department as the club looks to build a forward line capable of contributing goals and creating opportunities.

Lewis Mwaniki, Felix Kamau, Brian Macharia and Moses Bwire have all renewed their contracts, ensuring that the Pride retain four players from their existing attacking group.

The squad announcement marks an important step in preparations for the 2026/27 season. The next test will come on the pitch, where the blend of continuity, recruitment and homegrown talent will be measured by the team's performances.