The 2023/24 football season officially closes on June 30 as teams usher in the 2024/25 season. A host of top players in the Rwanda Primus National League (PNL) will see their contracts expire at the end of the season. Weekend Sport takes a look at five top PNL players whose contracts officially expire on June 30. Jean Bosco Akayezu (AS Kigali) The experienced guardsman has been the heart and soul of the AS Kigali defense since joining the team from Etincelles in June 2022. Akayezu has risen to becoming the vice-captain of the team and he was one of their instrumental players this season as the Citizens moved from a relegation threatened team in the first round to finishing fifth at the end of the season. As the centre back's contract expires, it is very likely that the club will offer him a new deal as they hope to challenge APR for the trophy in the 2024/25 season. ALSO READ: Interview: Mugisha on his breakthrough, Amavubi and playing in Europe Kevin Muhire (Rayon Sports) Muhire rejoined the Blues in October on a short-term deal which expires on June 30 and he was a standout player for the club despite losing star players Heritier Luvumbu, Joackiam Ojera and Abdul Rwatubyaye. Muhire made it clear that he won’t continue with Rayon Sports next season, revealing that he had already agreed to a foreign team. However, reports indicate that the Blues are pushing to trigger his move in an attempt to extend his deal. Clement Niyigena (APR FC) The former Rayon Sports defender and Rwanda U23 captain has been amongst the best centre backs in the league. His first season was blighted by injuries though he made 21 league appearances scoring four goals. He and Yunusu Nashimiyimana formed APR’s defensive wall which was instrumental to finishing the season unbeaten. Overall, an injury-free Niyigena played 27 out of 30 league games for the army side scoring twice. Niyigena has established himself as club’s first choice centre back but his future at the club hangs in the balance as his deal nears expiration. Chances are high that he could extend his stay and, if APR were to let him go, then probably he is moving out of Rwanda. Vincent Adams (Bugesera FC) The Bugesera FC captain had a decent 2023/24 season despite starting a host of games from the bench. Each time he was introduced, he changed the phase of the game and drove the team forward with his artistic play. Signed from Mukura Victory Sports in July 2022, the former Chelsea of England Academy realist has proven his mettle as a leader both on and off the pitch. He is linked to a move to Muhazi United who are waiting to sign him as soon as his contract expires at the end of the season. Christian Ishimwe (APR FC) The left back was linked with a move to Tanzanian Premier League side Azam FC in January and rumors were that he has already held talks with the club over a potential move in June. However, during an interview with Times Sport, Ishimwe pointed out that he hasn't held any talks with Azam or any club. With his contract expiring on June 30, APR could offer him a new deal though they will let him move if a reasonable offer comes from outside Rwanda.
