João Gabriel extends KCCA FC stay until 2027
The 23-year-old joined KCCA in July 2023 from Brazilian side ADC Cabofriense and has since become a key figure in the club’s long-term project at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.
Brazilian winger João Gabriel Esteves Cardoso. Courtesy photo
By Chrispus Baluku
Journalists @New Vision
Brazilian winger João Gabriel Esteves Cardoso has committed his future to Kampala Capital City Authority Football Club (KCCA FC) by signing a new two-year contract extension, the club has confirmed.
“KCCA FC is delighted to announce that Brazilian forward João Gabriel Esteves Cardoso has signed a new two-year contract extension, securing his future with the Kasasiro Boys until 2027,” read an official club statement.
The 23-year-old joined KCCA in July 2023 from Brazilian side ADC Cabofriense and has since become a key figure in the club’s long-term project at the MTN Omondi Stadium, Lugogo.
“This development ensures that the talented attacker will continue to dazzle the KCCA FC faithful at the MTN Omondi Stadium for seasons to come,” the club added.
Gabriel, who previously featured for Flamengo’s U17 and U20 teams and Germany’s FCA Darmstadt, quickly won over fans with his flair, creativity, and decisive contributions on the pitch.
“I’m happy to continue my journey with KCCA FC,” Gabriel said after signing the new deal. “I’ve embraced the culture here and felt the passion from the fans. Lugogo feels like home, and I’m eager to keep contributing to the team’s success.”
Despite an injury-hit debut season, Gabriel made 10 league appearances, scoring four goals and providing three assists. He also netted once in the Stanbic Uganda Cup and played a key role in KCCA’s run to the 2024 Uganda Cup final.
Signed during the tenure of Portuguese coach Sergio Traguil, Gabriel is one of the few remaining players from that era. His contract renewal comes amid a broader restructuring at the club, which recently reappointed coaches Brian Ssenyondo and Jackson Magera on two-year deals.
KCCA FC, a club with a rich history, has now gone six years without a major trophy. However, Gabriel’s commitment offers renewed hope for a return to glory.
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Gabriel’s football journey has taken him from Brazil to Germany and now Uganda—a path that has shaped him into a dynamic and valuable asset for the Kasasiro Boys.