{"id":8547,"date":"2026-08-21T14:29:50","date_gmt":"2026-08-21T11:29:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/?p=8547"},"modified":"2026-08-21T14:29:51","modified_gmt":"2026-08-21T11:29:51","slug":"express-fc-unveil-alpha-ssali-rickman-new-signings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/express-fc-unveil-alpha-ssali-rickman-new-signings\/","title":{"rendered":"Express FC Unveil Alpha Ssali, Rickman and Other New Signings in Major Squad Rebuild"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Express FC unveil Alpha Thierry Ssali, Rickman Rickie, Mathias Kigonya and Shafik Batambuze as the Red Eagles strengthen their squad for 2026\/27.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Uganda Premier League giants <strong>Express FC have intensified their squad rebuild by unveiling Alpha Thierry Ssali alongside several new signings<\/strong>, including Derrick Ddungu, popularly known as musician Rickman Rickie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Red Eagles have also recruited experienced goalkeeper <strong>Mathias Kigonya<\/strong> and defender <strong>Shafik Batambuze<\/strong>, while <strong>Isaac Wagoina<\/strong> has returned to Wankulukuku from BUL FC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The transfer activity gives head coach <strong>Morley Byekwaso<\/strong> several new options as Express prepare for the 2026\/27 Uganda Premier League campaign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sports Nation Uganda reported the arrivals of Kigonya, Batambuze and Rickman, while Express subsequently confirmed Ssali&#8217;s return through the club&#8217;s official social-media channels. <a href=\"https:\/\/kawowo.com\/2026\/08\/20\/transfers-alpha-thiery-ssali-set-to-rejoin-express\/\">Kawowo Sports<\/a> had earlier reported that the youngster was closing in on a return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Express FC New Signings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Player<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Position\/Role<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Alpha Thierry Ssali<\/td><td>Forward<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Derrick Ddungu \u2013 Rickman Rickie<\/td><td>Attacker<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mathias Kigonya<\/td><td>Goalkeeper<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Shafik Batambuze<\/td><td>Defender<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Isaac Wagoina<\/td><td>Forward<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The combination of experienced and younger players suggests Express are strengthening several departments rather than concentrating their recruitment on one area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Rear view of Wagoina wearing a red-and-white number 11 football jersey with the Bangbet logo on the back.\" src=\"blob:https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/dc84ee08-6a17-4237-bca7-b413c6a78c40\" width=\"624\" height=\"351\">Wagoina poses in his number 11 jersey featuring Bangbet branding.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Alpha Ssali Returns to Express FC<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alpha Thierry Ssali&#8217;s return is one of the standout developments in the Red Eagles&#8217; rebuild.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ssali previously represented Express before joining KCCA FC, but struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at Lugogo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His return to Wankulukuku provides another opportunity to secure consistent playing time and continue his development in familiar surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The attacker brings pace and the ability to operate across forward positions. He also leaves KCCA having been part of the squad that won the <strong>2026 FUFA Super 8<\/strong>, defeating NEC 1-0 in the final.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Express, signing a player already familiar with the club could help reduce the time required for adaptation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Rickman Rickie Returns to Competitive Football<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another signing generating considerable interest is <strong>Derrick Ddungu, commonly known as Rickman Rickie<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rickman is best known for his music career, but football was an important part of his earlier life. He previously pursued the sport in <strong>Sweden<\/strong> before a knee injury disrupted his playing career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He subsequently established himself in Uganda&#8217;s entertainment industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His arrival at Express therefore represents an unusual return to competitive football and will attract interest beyond the club&#8217;s traditional supporters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, reputation away from football will not determine his role at Wankulukuku. Rickman will need to demonstrate his fitness and ability to compete for selection in Byekwaso&#8217;s squad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Kigonya Adds Experience in Goal<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Mathias Kigonya<\/strong> brings substantial experience to the Express goalkeeping department.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Ugandan goalkeeper has previously played domestically and abroad, including spells in <strong>Kenya, Zambia and Zimbabwe<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His experience could be valuable for a team undergoing significant changes. Beyond making saves, an experienced goalkeeper can provide organisation and communication to the defence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kigonya&#8217;s arrival should also increase competition for the starting position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Goalkeeper Mathias Kigonya wearing a green jersey and gloves stands beside the goalpost during a match.\" src=\"blob:https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/e8cee558-1b7f-4355-9547-a9c055e40cb9\" width=\"624\" height=\"351\">Mathias Kigonya in action between the posts during a football match. Photo courtesy(Kawowo)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Batambuze Strengthens Express Defence<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Express have added further experience through the recruitment of <strong>Shafik Batambuze<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The defender has represented clubs across East Africa and has previously featured for the <strong>Uganda Cranes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Batambuze&#8217;s experience could prove useful both on the pitch and within a squad containing younger players. His arrival gives Byekwaso another defensive option as the coach works to establish his preferred structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Isaac Wagoina Returns to Wankulukuku<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Express&#8217;s rebuilding programme also includes the return of <strong>Isaac Wagoina<\/strong> following his spell with BUL FC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wagoina provides another attacking option and joins Ssali among players returning to familiar surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having multiple options across the forward positions should give Byekwaso greater flexibility, but competition for places means the new arrivals will still have to earn regular playing time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Shafick Batambuze poses with his arms crossed while wearing a blue-and-white striped football jersey.\" src=\"blob:https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/dc72e16c-d744-4098-a7e0-73d3e2110e07\" width=\"624\" height=\"351\">Shafick Batambuze poses with his arms crossed&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Photo courtesy (Kawowo)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Morley Byekwaso Leads Express Rebuild<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The recruitment follows the appointment of <strong>Morley Byekwaso as Express head coach<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The former KCCA and SC Villa tactician also represented the Red Eagles during his playing career and now carries responsibility for improving the club&#8217;s fortunes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Express endured a difficult 2025\/26 campaign and entered the transfer window needing significant improvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The additions of Ssali, Kigonya, Batambuze, Rickman and Wagoina therefore represent more than headline signings. Byekwaso must now turn the individual players into a competitive and balanced team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What the Signings Mean for Express Supporters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Express supporters, the recruitment offers fresh intrigue ahead of the new campaign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ssali brings youthful attacking potential, while Kigonya and Batambuze add experience. Wagoina provides another forward option, and Rickman&#8217;s football comeback creates one of the more unusual stories surrounding the new season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, signings alone do not guarantee improved results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Express must develop consistency, improve performances and establish a clear identity if their rebuilding programme is to produce meaningful progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Follow Ugandan Football with Bangbet Uganda<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ugandan football supporters aged <strong>25 and above<\/strong> who choose to bet can check available domestic and international football fixtures and markets on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug-m\/\">Bangbet Uganda<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check confirmed fixtures, team news, current odds, and market rules before making a decision. Transfers, previous results and predictions may provide useful context but <strong>cannot guarantee a match outcome or betting return<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Betting involves financial risk and should be treated as entertainment rather than a source of income. Avoid chasing losses or using money needed for essential expenses. <strong>If betting stops being enjoyable or feels difficult to control, stop gambling and seek support.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Players can read Bangbet&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/help\/?docs=measures-of-responsible-gambling-at-bangbet\">Responsible Gambling guidance<\/a>. For account, payment or complaint assistance, see the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/how-to-reach-bangbet-uganda-support-and-resolve-complaints\/\">Bangbet Uganda Support and Complaints Guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>End Note<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Express FC&#8217;s latest recruitment demonstrates the scale of the rebuild taking place at Wankulukuku.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The return of <strong>Alpha Thierry Ssali and Isaac Wagoina<\/strong>, together with experienced additions <strong>Mathias Kigonya and Shafik Batambuze<\/strong>, provides Byekwaso with new options across the squad. Rickman Rickie&#8217;s return to competitive football adds another intriguing element.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The names create interest, but performances will ultimately determine whether the rebuild succeeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Byekwaso and the Red Eagles, the next challenge is turning an active transfer window into better results when competitive football begins.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Express FC unveil Alpha Thierry Ssali, Rickman Rickie, Mathias Kigonya and Shafik Batambuze as the Red Eagles strengthen their squad for 2026\/27. Uganda Premier League giants Express FC have intensified their squad rebuild by unveiling Alpha Thierry Ssali alongside several new signings, including Derrick Ddungu, popularly known as musician Rickman Rickie. The Red Eagles have [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":8543,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[35],"tags":[108,105,83],"class_list":["post-8547","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-football-news","tag-football","tag-football-news","tag-sports-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8547","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8547"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8547\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8548,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8547\/revisions\/8548"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8543"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8547"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8547"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8547"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}