Twenty-four years after featuring in the FIFA U-17 World Cup as a player, former Ghana international and renowned football pundit Laryea Kingston is set to return to the global youth stage — this time, from the touchline.

Kingston has been appointed head coach of Uganda’s U-17 national team on a two-year contract, marking a significant milestone in his evolving coaching career.

The Uganda Football Association (FUFA) officially unveiled him at a ceremony in Kampala earlier today.

In addition to his new role, Kingston will also oversee Uganda’s U-15 and U-20 national teams, forming part of the country’s long-term vision to develop a strong youth football structure.

“This is a vision that is materialising in stages,” Kingston told Joy Sports.

“First, I wanted to play at the U-17 World Cup, and it happened.

Now, I’m returning as a coach — it’s an opportunity to unite young players and achieve something special.”

The former Black Stars winger, who earned 41 international caps for Ghana, brings a wealth of experience both on and off the pitch.

In Ghana, he played for top-flight clubs including Accra Hearts of Oak, winners of the CAF Champions League and Super Cup, and Great Olympics, another historic Ghana Premier League side.

Kingston credited the Right to Dream Academy and its founder, Tom Vernon, for shaping his coaching journey.

“I have gained valuable experience over the years and must give credit to the Right to Dream Academy.

Tom Vernon believed in me and encouraged me to take this path.

Today, I’m proud that I made that decision,” he reflected.

His coaching career began at the Right to Dream Academy, where he managed the U-18 team, before being appointed head coach of Ghana’s U-17 national team (Black Starlets) between 2023 and 2024.

After leaving the role midway through the WAFU Zone B tournament in 2024, Kingston took up a short-term coaching role with Rush Point Academy in Florida, USA.

Beyond coaching, Kingston has built a strong reputation as a football analyst and pundit, having contributed to major broadcasts such as UEFA Euro 2020 on Joy Prime, AFCON coverage on SuperSport (DStv), and Joy Sports Channel on Multi TV.

His appointment is widely seen as a boost to Uganda’s youth football ambitions, with many hopeful that his technical expertise, passion, and international experience will inspire a new generation of East African footballers.