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Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC have completed one of the biggest signings of the transfer window after re-signing former talisman Cesar Lobi Manzoki on a two-year contract.
The return of the Congolese striker, fondly known as “The Emperor”, has sent excitement across the Venoms faithful as one of the club’s modern-day legends makes his way back to St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
Manzoki previously enjoyed a memorable spell at Vipers, where he established himself as one of the most lethal forwards in Ugandan football.
Across two seasons, he made 46 league appearances, scoring 26 goals and providing 13 assists while helping the club to domestic success.
His most remarkable campaign came during the 2021/22 season when he netted 18 league goals to inspire Vipers to the Uganda Premier League title and finish as the division’s top scorer.
The striker also swept several individual accolades that season, including the Uganda Premier League Player of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season, Forward of the Season and a place in the league’s Best XI.
Before his departure from Kitende, Manzoki had already etched his name into the club’s history books after finishing as the top scorer of the 2020/21 Stanbic Uganda Cup with seven goals, helping the Venoms lift the trophy.
Following his exit, the 29-year-old embarked on a journey across Africa and Asia, featuring for AS Dauphins Noirs, AS Maniema Union and AS Vita Club in DR Congo, before stints with Dalian Pro in China, Hatta Club in the United Arab Emirates, Mohammedan Sporting Club in Bangladesh and most recently Eastern District FC in Hong Kong.
Speaking after sealing his return, Manzoki expressed his delight at rejoining a club he considers home.
“It is amazing to be back to a place I call home. Some of the happiest moments of my career were created here and I cannot wait to wear this badge once again and give everything for the club and the supporters,” he said.
Vipers head coach Denis Lavagne also welcomed the striker’s return, describing him as a player who understands the club’s ambitions and winning culture.
The return of Manzoki further underlines Vipers’ intentions ahead of the 2026/27 season as the Venoms prepare to compete in the Uganda Premier League, Stanbic Uganda Cup, CECAFA Kagame Cup and CAF Champions League.
Manzoki joins fellow new signings Jacques Mangoba, Nicholas Mwere, Joel Sserunjogi and Gabonese goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba as Vipers continue to bolster their squad.
