Uncertain future for Uganda Cranes coach Paul Put ahead of AFCON 2025

The future of Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put is looking uncertain, with just five months remaining on his current contract.

The Belgian tactician signed a two-year deal on November 2, 2023, which is set to expire on November 2, 2025 just weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off on December 21.

Since Put took over, he has led Uganda to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), finishing second in their qualifying group. This will mark Uganda's eighth appearance at the tournament, with their best finish being in 1978 when they were runners-up in Ghana. 

At 69, Put is also managing Uganda during the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Right now, Uganda is second in their group with nine points, six points behind leaders Algeria. The top team qualifies directly for the World Cup, while the second place will go through a tough playoff. 

Before coaching Uganda, Put managed several other African national teams, including Burkina Faso, The Gambia, Guinea, Kenya, and Congo. His biggest highlight was leading Burkina Faso to the AFCON final in 2013, where they lost to Nigeria. 

He’s been working on blending both local and foreign players into the national team. Notable additions like Jordan Obita, Toby Sibbick, and Elio Capradossi have come from overseas, while local stars like Hilary Mukundane and Nafian Alionzi are also making a mark. 

Put’s recent selections also show he’s looking to the future, with young talents like Mutwalib Mugolofa, Isima Magala, and James Bogere, who have come up through the youth ranks. 

FUFA is reportedly looking to renew Put's contract before AFCON 2025, aiming to have everything settled before the tournament kicks off in December for better team stability. 

Currently, Paul Put is in Morocco with the Uganda Cranes for two international friendlies. Uganda will play against Cameroon on Friday, June 6, at 10:00 PM, and then face The Gambia on Monday, June 9, at 6:00 PM. 

These matches are part of the team’s preparations for AFCON and the World Cup qualifiers.