Kenyan striker Masoud Juma has signed a seven-month contract with Iranian giants Esteghlal FC, marking a significant step in his career after months of recovery from injury. The deal, confirmed on November 27, 2024, runs until June 30, 2025, and pairs Juma with legendary coach Pitso Mosimane, who took over at the club on October 18, 2024.
A Fresh Start for Masoud
Juma, 28, has been without a club since July when his contract with Saudi side Al Jabalain expired. His time in Saudi Arabia was marred by a serious Achilles tendon rupture in January, sidelining him for several months. However, his road to recovery included training with the Harambee Stars during their preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Cameroon, as well as sessions with his former club, Kariobangi Sharks.
This move to Esteghlal signals Juma’s full recovery and readiness to return to competitive football. He becomes the second Kenyan playing in Iran’s Persian Gulf Pro League, joining compatriot Anthony Akumu.
Esteghlal: A Club Rich in History
Founded in 1945, Esteghlal FC is Tehran’s oldest professional football club, boasting an impressive record of 38 championship titles across provincial, national, and continental competitions. The team plays its home matches at the iconic Azadi Stadium, which holds 78,000 spectators.
Currently, Esteghlal sits tenth in the league after 10 matches and is also competing in the AFC Champions League. Under Mosimane’s stewardship, the club is keen to climb the league standings and make a mark on the continental stage.
Masoud Juma’s Journey
Juma’s career has seen him traverse several clubs across Africa and the Middle East, including Cape Town City (South Africa), JS Kabylie (Algeria), Dibba Al-Fujairah (UAE), Al-Nasr Benghazi (Libya), and Difaa El Jadidi (Morocco). Locally, he is best remembered for his prolific spell at Kariobangi Sharks, where he emerged as the top scorer in the Kenyan Premier League.
With this move to Esteghlal, Juma will be aiming to rebuild his form and re-establish himself as one of Kenya’s top football exports.
A New Chapter Under Legendary Coach Mosimane
Pitso Mosimane, a highly decorated coach known for his success with Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly, brings a wealth of experience to Esteghlal. His arrival at the club has created optimism for a turnaround in their fortunes.
Juma’s signing could prove pivotal as Mosimane reshapes the team, aiming to challenge for domestic and continental glory.