RWANDA international Patrick ‘Papy’ Sibomana has joined Belarus Premier League side Shakhtyor Soligorsk, signing three-year contract until end of 2020, Sunday Sport understands. The former Isonga FC forward traveled to Belarus five days ago to undergo medical test and later finalize his ‘dream’ transfer from APR FC. After signing the contract, Sibomana said: “As a sportsman, my wish is always to keep developing, improve and become a better player. I am enjoying my career now and I have got an opportunity to play professional so I have to grab it with both hands.” “I am happy to secure my first professional contract. I am going to work hard for my future, it is dream that come to Europe, this is the right time and I will use this chance the best that I can,” he noted. The 21-year-old was out of contract with APR FC where he had been since 2013. Sibomana has also played for the national team at the U17, U20 and U23 levels. Shakhtyor Soligorsk currently leads the Belarus Premier League with 39 points with three points ahead of second-placed Bate Borisov after 15 matches. Last season, they finished second in the league which gave them the ticket to playing Europa League but they were eliminated by Sūduva Marijampolė of Lithuania 2-1 in the preliminary round. FC Shakhtyor Soligorsk was founded in 1961 during Soviet era and have won Belarusian Premier League 2005, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016 and the Belarusian Cup in 2004 and 2014. Sibomana is third player to leave APR in the offseason following Eric Rutanga, who joined archrivals Rayon Sports and fullback Michel Rusheshangoga to Singida United in the Tanzanian Premier League. Meanwhile in other transfer news, Azam Rwanda Premier League champions Rayon Sports are close to signing Burundian forward Bonfils Caleb Bimenyimana from Vital’O. The forward arrived in the country on Friday to finalize talks and if all goes well, he could put pen to paper on Sunday (today).
