Frenchman Pilato breathes new life into Kenya Police

Kenya Police FC head coach Raphael Pilato/HANDOUTRaphaël Pilato has wasted little time stamping his authority on Kenya Police FC, guiding the Law Enforcers to consecutive victories as he seeks to restore their status as serious contenders for domestic honours.

The French tactician has enjoyed an encouraging start since taking charge, masterminding wins over Ulinzi Stars and Shabana to revive the club’s hopes following a disappointing opening to the 2026/27 SportPesa League campaign.

Police beat Ulinzi 1-0 in the Disciplined Forces Derby before repeating the same scoreline against Shabana at Afraha Stadium on Monday, with Brian Chonjo Otieno’s 17th-minute strike settling the contest.

The victories have eased pressure on a team that had collected just two points from its opening three matches under Nicholas Muyoti, who was dismissed alongside his assistant John Baraza following the poor start.

Pilato, who previously coached Gabonese outfit FC 105 Libreville, brings considerable international experience to the club. He holds a UEFA Pro Licence, the highest coaching qualification in European football, and is known for his 3-5-2 playing formation.

“I want my players to understand that football is about more than individual talent. We must function as a team, remain organised and make the right decisions at crucial moments,” Pilato said.

His immediate impact has been evident in Police’s defensive solidity. They have scored twice without conceding in his first two matches, suggesting a team beginning to find its balance after an unsettled start.

Pilato favours possession-based football, quick attacking transitions and aggressive pressing when his team loses the ball. However, his opening results suggest he is equally comfortable adopting a cautious approach when circumstances demand it.

“Every match presents a different challenge. Sometimes you have to control the game with the ball, while in other situations you must be patient, defend well and take your opportunities when they come,” he said.

The Frenchman has maintained a relatively low profile in front of the media, leaving assistant coach Anthony Akhulia to handle pre-match and post-match press conferences. Akhulia has previously acknowledged the enormous expectations at Police, insisting that the club’s ambitions leave little room for complacency.

“Police is a big club, and everybody understands that the expectation is to compete for trophies. The players know what is required of them, and our responsibility is to help them deliver,” Pilato said.

His immediate priority will be to maintain the winning momentum while improving the team’s attacking output. “We have made a positive start, but two victories do not mean the job is finished. We still have areas to improve, and the players must remain hungry,” he said.

With the Law Enforcers rediscovering their winning touch, Pilato will hope to turn his promising introduction into a sustained challenge for the league title.

“Our ambition is to win. We respect every opponent, but we also believe in what we are building here. The supporters deserve a team that competes in every match,” he said.

The club has embarked on one of the busiest recruitment drives in the SportPesa League, bolstered by a Sh6 million financial boost from corporate sponsors.

Shabana aim to end their winless run against Police FC at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru as coach Ahmed Fathi targets a first home win.