Kenyan international international Eric Johana Omondi has sealed a transfer move to Romanian top-tier side UTA Arad.
The 29-year-old Johana was clubless since leaving Thai top side Muangthong United but has penned a two-year renewable contract to join the Romanian side, who are coached by Mircea Rednic.
“Striker Eric Johana Omondi has already arrived in Arad and will join the team led by Mircea Rednic,” confirmed a statement on UTA Arad’s official website, adding: “We wish him a warm welcome and as many goals as possible at UTA.”
“It is great to be here,” Johana said after being unveiled. “I spoke to the coach on the plans he has for this great club and I felt I should be part of the team to achieve what the coach wants the team to achieve. It was not difficult for me to say yes, and I am happy to be here.”
On what he brings to the team, Johana said: “I have experience having played in top leagues across Europe, I was in Sweden and also in Thai so I am very confident my experience will be an added advantage to the team.”
UTA Arad coach Rednic was elated to have finally sealed the signing of Johana, whom he described as a versatile player, who would be key to the team in their pursuit of titles this campaign.
“He is a quality lad, I have followed him for a while now and it was good to bring him on board now that he was a free agent,” said Rednic, adding “I am confident his play from the wings will be an added advantage to my side and we hope to work together and make our fans happy this season.”
Born on August 18, 1994, in Kenya, Johana started his football in his native country at the then-FKF Premier League outfit Mathare United. He made the step to Europe in the Swedish championship, at Vasalunds IF, and in Northern Europe, he also played for Brommapojkarna, J-Sodra, and Belgian outfit Beveren.
While at Muangthong, Johana, who will wear jersey number 24, scored ten goals and provided three decisive assists in 28 appearances in the last campaign. He has amassed 36 caps for Kenya’s Harambee Stars for which he has scored six goals.
Johana’s new team plays in red and white uniforms at the new Francisc von Neuman Stadium, which was opened in 2020. UTA holds a long-standing rivalry with neighbouring SSU Politehnica Timișoara, with whom it contests the West derby.