Former Gor Mahia striker Benson Omala has officially parted ways with Lebanese club AI-Safa Sporting after going three months without pay.
Omala, who joined the Beirut-based outfit in August last year, invoked FIFA regulations allowing players to terminate their contracts if their employer delays salary payments for more than two months. His father, Peter Oluoch, confirmed the decision, revealing that the club had failed to pay Omala’s wages for October, November, and December.
“He requested contract termination in January after going three months without pay. Fortunately, his contract had a clause allowing him to leave if payments were delayed for three months. We expect the club to issue his release letter by Tuesday,” Oluoch stated.
Omala’s omission from AI-Safa’s squad for the remainder of the season had already sparked speculation about his future, with Gor Mahia emerging as a potential destination on a loan deal. However, Oluoch dismissed claims that his son had received any formal offers from local or foreign clubs.
“Contrary to reports circulating on social media, no club has tabled an official offer. He is currently keeping fit in Kisumu as he assesses his options,” he added.
Omala, a former Kisumu Day High School prodigy, had previously played a crucial role in helping Gor Mahia secure back-to-back FKF Premier League titles before moving to Lebanon. However, his stint at AI-Safa was short-lived, as he returned to Kenya in August for national team duties and never went back.
Sources indicate that Omala had already expressed concerns over delayed sign-on fees, while Lebanon’s deteriorating security situation further influenced his decision not to return. With his contract now officially terminated, the highly sought-after forward is expected to weigh his next move carefully.
