Seven-time Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC and legendary midfielder and Ugandan international Siraje Ssentamu have agreed to part ways after six seasons of absolute success, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
Ssentamu’s contract with Vipers came to an end, and while there were talks of an extension in the preceding week, an agreement couldn’t be reached on the financial terms between the parties. Subsequently, both parties mutually agreed to walk separate ways.
The acquisition of much more younger players including Enock Ssebaggala and renewal of Karim Watambala‘s contract have made it even more difficult for Ssentamu to stay at the club, as he would be starved of playing time in the 2025/26 campaign.
Exclusively speaking to a close confidant to Ssentamu, who also forms part of his management camp, it has been indicated that the club has informed the player that he will receive a formal and befitting send-off. Ssentamu has now attracted interest from Kenyan side AFC Leopards.
“With the situation at the moment, he has agreed with the club to move for another challenge. He did not play much last season, and the club no longer see him as pivotal in the setup. They have agreed to have a friendly game in his honour, and have also opened doors for a future return in a different capacity,” the source exclusively told Footy-Africa.
Last campaign, Ssentamu was restricted to just 20 appearances across the Uganda Premier League and the Uganda Cup. Overall, across his six-year stint, he has played 167 games, helping Vipers to four Uganda Premier League championships and two Uganda Cups. Previously, he has featured for SC Villa and URA FC.
Internationally, Ssentamu has received multiple calls to the senior national team, The Cranes, and has made 14 competitive caps, including featuring in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign.