Newly appointed SC Villa Technical Director Ian Robert Mutenda is relishing the opportunity to be part of the Jogoos’ football project, acknowledging the pressure and expectations that come with joining one of Uganda’s most successful clubs.
Mutenda was confirmed as SC Villa’s Technical Director on Thursday, taking up the role with immediate effect until the end of the current season as the club seeks to strengthen its technical structures and long-term football ambitions.
The former Soltilo Bright Stars technical chief described the appointment as a fresh challenge, admitting it was not an opportunity he had necessarily anticipated but one he could not turn down.
“I am looking forward to the opportunity. It’s a fresh challenge, not one that you necessarily prepare for, but when the chance came up, I couldn’t say no,” Mutenda said.
He acknowledged the expectations that come with joining a club of SC Villa’s stature but expressed confidence in his ability to handle the responsibility.
“SC Villa has the potential to be one of the biggest football projects, so joining a club like this, there is a lot of pressure and expectations, but I think I am ready for it,” he added.
Beyond the immediate demands of the job, Mutenda is particularly excited about the prospect of identifying and nurturing young talent, helping players develop and reach higher levels.
“I love the idea of bringing young talented players and helping them to get to another level. To do it in a good environment like this one, where there is a winning culture and history, I can’t wait to get started,” he stated.
Mutenda brings 16 years of experience in Ugandan football, having worked in various coaching and technical capacities.
He previously served as Technical Director at Soltilo Bright Stars, where he helped the club achieve its highest-ever league finish, record points and goals tallies, and reach its maiden Uganda Cup final.
He also guided Hope Sports Club from the fourth tier to the second division in three seasons during his time as head coach.
A holder of the CAF B Licence, Mutenda will now be tasked with helping SC Villa strengthen its football philosophy, improve its technical structures and build a sustainable project that matches the club’s ambitions.
