Abdul Karim Bangura Appointed as New Leone Stars Team Manager

The Executive Committee of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has appointed Abdul Karim Bangura, widely known as AKB, as the new Team Manager of the Leone Stars, Sierra Leone’s senior men’s national football team.

The appointment was confirmed on Saturday, August 16th, 2025, during an Executive Committee meeting at the FA’s headquarters in Freetown. Mr. Bangura takes up the role with immediate effect as the Leone Stars prepare for key international matches.

In an official presentation held at the SLFA headquarters on August 18th, 2025, Acting General Secretary Mohamed Benson Bawoh introduced Mr. Bangura to the technical team and players during a training session.

Speaking to the squad, Bangura expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him:

“It is with deep humility and pride that I accept this appointment as Team Manager of our beloved Leone Stars. This is not just a personal honor but a call to national service. My commitment is simple: to work hand in hand with the technical team, players, and management to ensure our Leone Stars are well-prepared, well-motivated, and fully supported to achieve success. Together, with unity, discipline, and determination, we will make Sierra Leone proud.”

Head Coach Mohamed Kallon welcomed the appointment, highlighting Bangura’s proven track record at Bo Rangers Football Club:

“We are happy to have you as Team Manager. You are not new in the game, and we have all seen the changes and development you brought to Bo Rangers. We strongly believe you can replicate the same success with the national team.”

Abdul Karim Bangura with Leone’s Star head coach Mohamed Kallon/ SLFA Facebook

Before stepping into his new role, Bangura was the Team Manager of Bo Rangers Football Club, where he was instrumental in turning the side into one of Sierra Leone’s most dominant teams. During his tenure, the club secured three straight Premier League titles (2022, 2023, and 2024), as well as the FA Cup, the Community League, and the Super Cup. His outstanding achievements with Bo Rangers are regarded as the key factor that paved the way for his appointment to the national team.

The brief ceremony was attended by SLFA Executive Committee members Pastor Philip Buck, Chairman of the Western Area Football Association, and Brima Jalloh , Chairman of the North-East Region.

Mr. Bangura’s appointment is seen as a move to strengthen the administrative and managerial structure of the Leone Stars as the team continues its push for continental and global football success.