‘It’s unfair’ – Former AFC Leopards defender frustrated by lack of playing time in Sweden

The Harambee Stars defender lamented his lack of playing time at 2018 Swedish champions AIK.

Former AFC Leopards defender Collins Sichenje is facing a difficult time at Swedish club AIK, with limited playing opportunities this season.

Despite overcoming a pre-season injury and being fit to play, Sichenje did not feature in any AIK league matches, fueling frustration and uncertainty over his future at the club.

Reports have emerged suggesting that AIK are favoring Ahmad Faqa, a young defender who recently returned from loan.

Faqa, who spent last summer on loan, has attracted interest from several clubs, potentially positioning him for a move in the upcoming transfer window. This development appears to have sidelined Sichenje, much to its dismay.

In an interview with Fotboll Sthlm, Sichenje expressed his frustrations, saying: “If I don’t get the chance (to play), I have to leave. It’s unfair that I’m not allowed to play. His feelings reflect the growing tension and disappointment he feels due to his lack of involvement in the field.

Sichenje joined AIK from AFC Leopards of the FKF Premier League ahead of the 2022 season. In his first season, he made eight appearances in the Allsvenskan, starting in four of them. Last year he was loaned to Finnish club Kuopio Palloseura (KuPS), where he made 20 league appearances and won the Young Player of the Season award.

Before the start of the current season, rumors were circulating linking Sichenje with a move to AIK’s rivals Mjallby.

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has warned Burundi and Ivory Coast not to expect an easy match against Kenya even though the African champions are considered favourites.

This information was, however, quickly denied by the club’s sporting director, Hasse Larsson. Despite this, the defender’s future at AIK remains uncertain, with FotbollDirekt reporting that he could be loaned out again this summer.

AIK are reportedly looking for a club in Norway to send Sichenje on loan, as they do not want to lose him permanently. His contract with AIK runs until summer 2026.

The club’s decision to focus on Faqa and explore a potential move for the 21-year-old defender has worsened Sichenje’s plight. AIK’s strategy appears to prioritize Faqa’s development and market value, potentially at the expense of Sichenje’s playing time and career progression.

As the summer transfer window approaches, the situation of Sichenje will be one to monitor. The defender’s desire for regular playing time and AIK’s plans for him could lead to another loan move, possibly providing him with the much-needed opportunity to showcase his talent and secure a stable position in professional football .

Bristol City star Zak Vyner was part of the final 25-man Harambee Stars squad that will travel to Malawi on Sunday for their matches against Ivory Coast and Burundi.

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