The new Tusker defender has not been a part of the Uganda Cranes set up after picking up a suspension in May 2023 for making controversial remarks which led to disciplinary action from the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
New Tusker FC defender Denis Iguma is focused on helping his new club achieve its goals while keeping the door open for a potential return to the Uganda national team ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Tusker FC announced the signing of the experienced 63-capped Ugandan international last January.
Capable of playing across multiple positions, Iguma brings a wealth of experience from his time with Uganda Cranes, SC Villa, SC Victoria University, and stints abroad. He has already featured twice for the Kenyan side, playing against KCB and Gor Mahia—both matches ending in goalless draws.
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“It’s a pleasure for me to be part of Tusker FC because playing for a big team like this makes a player feel very proud,” Iguma shared with Pulse Sports. “The experience I’ve gained in the two weeks since joining has been great. The team is competitive, and I have to prove myself so that the coach can use me.”
Iguma has seamlessly adapted to life in Kenya, appreciating the similarities between his new environment and his homeland.
“The country is great, and the people are welcoming. There’s not much difference from Uganda—it’s all East Africa. The players are friendly, and the football is very encouraging. That has made my transition easier.”
Understanding the expectations that come with playing for a club of Tusker’s stature, Iguma is fully committed to pushing the team towards Kenya Premier League success.
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“Football is not played individually. Of course, I have experience, but I also need my teammates. My role is to push harder, motivate the young players, and set an example. This is a big team, and the expectations are high. It demands commitment, and I am determined to help the club win the league. That would make me very happy at the end of the season.”
Tusker’s squad includes several Ugandan players, such as Deogracious Ojok, George Kaddu, and Boban Zirintusa, which has helped Iguma settle in quickly.
“From the first day I signed, I felt at home. My teammates welcomed me warmly and supported me. They told me great things about the club, and now I’m experiencing them firsthand. I’m enjoying my time here.”
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Uganda Cranes return?
Iguma has been absent from the Uganda national team for the past two years due to a combination of injuries and disciplinary issues.
He was part of the Cranes squad that competed in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, where they were eliminated in the group stage. However, a suspension in May 2023 while playing for KCCA FC—after making controversial remarks regarding match-fixing—led to disciplinary action from the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA).
Despite these setbacks, Iguma has not ruled out a return to the national team but insists his primary focus is on club football.
“Yes, of course, every player wants to represent their country. I’ve played for Uganda for many years, but for the past two years, I haven’t been called up. There have been ups and downs in my career—injuries, club changes—but my focus now is on my performance. If I perform well, they will notice me. If I get called up, it will be because of my performance, but right now, my priority is Tusker FC.”
With the 2025 AFCON qualifiers on the horizon, Iguma knows a strong season with Tusker FC could reignite his international career. However, for now, his eyes are firmly set on bringing success to his new club.
