NAIROBI, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) -- Kenya national football head coach, Francis Kimanzi and part of his technical team have left their positions by 'mutual consent,' the country's federation announced on Tuesday.

The shocking exit of the experienced tactician comes barely a week after he led the side to defeat 2013 African champions, Zambia, 2-1 in a friendly match on Oct. 9 in the first officially sanctioned game since in the country the outbreak of COVID-19.

"The federation is immensely grateful to Coach Kimanzi and his departing members of staff for their exemplary work, dedication and unrivalled professionalism, which has strengthened Kenya's chances of qualifying for the AFCON 2022 final tournament," Football Kenya Federation said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

Also leaving the team alongside Kimanzi are his assistant and ex-national team boss, Zedekiah Otieno and goal keeper trainer Lawrence Webo.

Otieno and Webo were part of the backroom staff that guided Kenya to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Egypt for the first time in 15 years under the head coach and Frenchman Sebastien Migne.

Kimanzi officially succeeded the French national on Aug. 17, 2019 for his third stint at the helm of the side following his appointment as the full time head coach on Dec. 11, 2008.

He had served as caretaker boss since May 2008 when the then head coach of club side, Mathare United was seconded by Kenya's top flight clubs to assist in running the national team after the federation of the day went bankrupt.

His notable success with the national side is leading Kenya to the third and final round of qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup and AFCON finals in South Africa and Angola.

However, in another controversial move, Kimanzi was axed in favor of German national Antoine Hey, who went on to win only one of the five qualifiers he took charge as Kenya crashed out of the running for both finals.

FKF further announced the search for their replacements has begun in "earnest." Enditem

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