Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Joseph Put has finally committed his future to the national team, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty and intense speculation. The Belgian tactician has penned a fresh two-and-a-half-year contract with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), extending his stay beyond the expiration of his previous deal on November 2.
Put had been heavily linked with a high-profile move to Cameroon, a rumour that gained significant traction as his initial contract drew to a close. However, FUFA moved swiftly to secure his services, banking on the stability and progress he has brought to the Cranes setup since taking charge.
Cameroon eyes Uganda boss Paul Put for potential coaching role
During a press briefing held at Kadiba Stadium on Thursday morning, the 68-year-old opened up about his renewed commitment and long-term ambitions for the national side.
“When you sign a new contract, it definitely means you are happy, and that’s exactly how I feel. The last two years have been a great journey, full of positives and lessons, with the ambition to improve the team. We are not yet where we want to be, but we are progressing towards that goal. Over this period, let’s work together for bigger achievements,” he noted.
Put’s mandate extends beyond the senior Cranes. He also doubles as head coach of the U23 side, a role through which he has championed domestic talent by consistently giving opportunities to players from local leagues, an approach that has earned him praise from fans and administrators alike.
💬 ‘The FUFA Executive Committee made a rare decision to renew Coach Paul Put’s contract, a testament to his outstanding performance.’ — Justus Mugisha, FUFA 1st Vice President#UGCranesWeGo pic.twitter.com/CbCNXUkPHV
— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) November 6, 2025
His first stint delivered some of Uganda’s most notable accomplishments in recent years. Under his stewardship, the Cranes earned a long-awaited return to the Africa Cup of Nations, sealing qualification for Morocco 2025, their first appearance at the continental showpiece since 2019. He also guided Uganda to a historic CHAN quarterfinal berth and orchestrated the nation’s strongest-ever FIFA World Cup qualifying run, missing the playoff stage by the slimmest of margins.
With East Africa preparing to jointly host the 2027 AFCON, Put now shifts his attention to laying the foundation for what could be a defining chapter in Uganda’s football history. FUFA views his renewed contract as a vote of confidence in his vision, while Put himself is determined to cement his legacy as the man to lead the Cranes into a home continental tournament with genuine belief and renewed purpose.
FUFA has renewed Paul Put’s contract until 2028#UGCranesWeGo | @UgandaCranes pic.twitter.com/IiuIclMg6R
— FUFA (@OfficialFUFA) November 6, 2025
