Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC have accomplished one of many largest signings of the switch window after re-signing former talisman Cesar Lobi Manzoki on a two-year contract.
The return of the Congolese striker, fondly often called “The Emperor”, has despatched pleasure throughout the Venoms devoted as one of many membership’s modern-day legends makes his means again to St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Manzoki beforehand loved a memorable spell at Vipers, the place he established himself as one of the vital deadly forwards in Ugandan soccer.
Throughout two seasons, he made 46 league appearances, scoring 26 targets and offering 13 assists whereas serving to the membership to home success.
His most outstanding marketing campaign got here through the 2021/22 season when he netted 18 league targets to encourage Vipers to the Uganda Premier League title and end because the division’s prime scorer.
The striker additionally swept a number of particular person accolades that season, together with the Uganda Premier League Participant of the Season, Gamers’ Participant of the Season, Ahead of the Season and a spot within the league’s Greatest XI.
Earlier than his departure from Kitende, Manzoki had already etched his identify into the membership’s historical past books after ending as the highest scorer of the 2020/21 Stanbic Uganda Cup with seven targets, serving to the Venoms carry the trophy.
Following his exit, the 29-year-old launched into a journey throughout Africa and Asia, that includes for AS Dauphins Noirs, AS Maniema Union and AS Vita Membership in DR Congo, earlier than stints with Dalian Professional in China, Hatta Membership within the United Arab Emirates, Mohammedan Sporting Membership in Bangladesh and most lately Japanese District FC in Hong Kong.
Talking after sealing his return, Manzoki expressed his delight at rejoining a membership he considers dwelling.
“It’s superb to be again to a spot I name dwelling. A few of the happiest moments of my profession have been created right here and I can’t wait to put on this badge as soon as once more and provides all the things for the membership and the supporters,” he stated.
Vipers head coach Denis Lavagne additionally welcomed the striker’s return, describing him as a participant who understands the membership’s ambitions and profitable tradition.
The return of Manzoki additional underlines Vipers’ intentions forward of the 2026/27 season because the Venoms put together to compete within the Uganda Premier League, Stanbic Uganda Cup, CECAFA Kagame Cup and CAF Champions League.
Manzoki joins fellow new signings Jacques Mangoba, Nicholas Mwere, Joel Sserunjogi and Gabonese goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba as Vipers proceed to bolster their squad.