Eric Rutanga excited about ‘new chapter’ with Nkana
Sunday, June 23, 2019
Eric Rutanga, seen here celebrating after scoring against Police in a past league match, joined Rayon Sports from APR in 2016 and helped the club to two league titles. / Courtesy

Rwanda international Eric Rutanga has said he looks forward to his new chapter with Nkana after agreeing to join the Zambian side on a two-year deal.

The Rayon Sports left-back – whose current contract runs out next month – flew to Lusaka Saturday where both sides are due to finalise and officially announce the move by Monday after agreeing to personal terms.

Rutanga, 26, departs Rayon after helping them to their ninth league title this month.

"Nkana is a team with great vision. I look forward to enjoying my new chapter and contributing to their enormous history” said Rutanga.

Nkana are Zambia’s most successful club, with a record twelve league titles.

He added: "Leaving Rayon was not an easy decision, but I trust this is a good time to go for a new challenge and strive for more growth as a person and footballer. I cannot wait to get onto the pitch and help my club to more success.”

Rutanga is one of the most famous products of the Rwanda U-17 national team that participated in the 2011 FIFA U17 World Cup in Mexico.

Since joining Rayon from archrivals APR in 2016, he won two league titles and played critical role as the Blues reached quarter-finals of the 2018 CAF Confederation Cup – the first time by any Rwandan team.

Ciza joins Rayon

In the meantime, former Mukura skipper Hussein Ciza has joined champions Rayon Sports, also on a two-year contract, which will keep him at the club till end of the 2020/2021 season.

The club has also secured the signature of former AS Muhanga talisman Yannick Bizimana who scored 14 goals for the Muhanga-based side in Azam Rwanda Premier League last season.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com