Four-time Uganda Premier League champions URA FC have confirmed the appointment of experienced tactician Hussein Mbalangu as their new head coach, ushering in a new era at Nakivubo for the Revenue Collectors.
Footy-Uganda has reliably learnt that Mbalangu has been handed a six-month contract, with the club’s top hierarchy set to closely monitor his progress before making a decision on a possible long-term extension. The arrangement underscores URA’s cautious but ambitious approach as they seek to reassert themselves among the league’s elite.
Mbalangu steps into the role vacated by Alex Isabirye Musongola, who parted ways with the club earlier this month. Veteran coach Sam Ssimbwa was also strongly linked to the position, but URA ultimately settled on Mbalangu as their preferred choice.
The CAF ‘A’ Licensed coach arrives with a solid recent track record. He parted company with NEC FC in November but left having overseen one of the club’s most successful periods. Last season, Mbalangu guided NEC to an impressive second-place finish in the Uganda Premier League, firmly establishing them as title contenders.
Appointed NEC head coach in 2023, Mbalangu had taken over from Michael “Skills” Lukyamuzi, who had masterminded the club’s promotion from the Big League. Under his stewardship, NEC also reached the Stanbic Uganda Cup final in 2024, only to fall short against eventual champions Kitara FC.
Beyond NEC, Mbalangu brings a wealth of experience from across the region and beyond. His coaching résumé includes spells at Blacks Power, Mbarara City, Arua Hill SC, Azam FC Bweyogerere, as well as an overseas stint in Somalia.
With URA FC opting for a performance-based assessment over the next six months, all eyes will be on Mbalangu as he seeks to make an immediate impact and convince the club’s decision-makers that he is the right man to lead the Revenue Collectors into the future.
