Leone Stars Captain Osman Kakay Bids Farewell to Boyhood Club
After nearly two decades of dedicated service, Leone Stars and Queens Park Rangers stalwart, Osman Kakay, has made the heartfelt decision to bid adieu to his beloved boyhood club. The Sierra Leone international, affectionately known for his unwavering commitment on the pitch, took to social media to share the poignant news of his departure.
Harking back to his roots, Kakay reminisced about his formative years within the QPR ranks, a journey that commenced at the tender age of eight. Through the nurturing environment of the QPR academy, Kakay honed his skills, eventually emerging as a formidable presence within the first team. His inaugural foray onto the professional stage in 2016 marked the genesis of a remarkable tenure, punctuated by over a century of appearances in the storied blue and white.
In a heartfelt message conveyed via Facebook, Kakay expressed profound gratitude towards the institution that shaped his footballing odyssey. "It’s time to say goodbye to my boyhood club," he reflected. "From the age of seven, I’ve called QPR my home, and I’m forever grateful for everything the club has done for me and my family. Coming through the academy and eventually going on to make over 100 appearances for the club means so much to me, especially being a local boy growing up in South Kilburn."
Kakay’s illustrious tenure at QPR was not without its ebbs and flows, marked by enriching loan spells at Chesterfield, Livingston, and Partick Thistle. However, it was his indomitable spirit and unwavering determination that propelled him into the spotlight, culminating in a standout 2020/21 campaign where he emerged as a linchpin in the Championship, tallying 28 appearances.
Despite encountering intermittent challenges, including a period of reduced playing time under the stewardship of manager Mark Warburton during the 2021/22 season, Kakay resolutely reclaimed his spot in the starting lineup until the advent of Marti Cifuentes in October 2023. With QPR now seemingly poised to retain their Championship status, Kakay’s departure signals the dawn of a new chapter, brimming with opportunities for both player and club.
In bidding farewell to a cherished chapter of his footballing saga, Kakay leaves behind a legacy etched in the annals of QPR history. The club, in turn, extends its heartfelt appreciation to Kakay for his unwavering dedication and exemplary service, offering sincere wishes for his future endeavors.
As Kakay embarks on the next chapter of his illustrious career, the footballing fraternity eagerly awaits the unfolding of his next triumphant chapter, one that promises to resonate with the same fervor and tenacity that defined his tenure at Queens Park Rangers.