Across Kenya, hundreds of players sign contracts that leave them unpaid, stuck at clubs they want to leave, or cut off without recourse when they get injured. Why? Because they didn’t read the fine print, didn’t ask questions, and didn’t seek help. At XP Sports, we’ve seen it too often.
Here are six key red flags to watch out for before you sign your next contract:
1. Fine Print You Don’t Understand
What players do wrong: Many rush to sign contracts out of excitement or fear of losing the opportunity. They ignore complex clauses or legal jargon.
Why it’s dangerous: Hidden clauses could lock you in for years or leave you without pay if the club decides to terminate you.
What to do: Ask. If you don’t understand it, get a second opinion. A coach, experienced player, agent, or lawyer can explain it to you.
2. No Written Club Obligations
What players do wrong: They accept verbal promises about accommodation, bonuses, transport, and medical care.
Why it’s dangerous: If it’s not in writing, it doesn’t exist. When disputes arise, you have no proof.
What to do: Demand that all promises are included in the contract. You are not being difficult—you’re being professional.
3. Unfair Termination Clauses
What players do wrong: They don’t check if both sides can exit the contract fairly.
Why it’s dangerous: The club may have the right to terminate anytime, while you’re stuck even if you’re unpaid or mistreated.
What to do: Ensure there are fair exit terms for you too. Ask for a mutual termination clause.
4. Vague Payment Terms
What players do wrong: They sign contracts that simply say "you will be paid monthly" without a specific date or mode of payment.
Why it’s dangerous: You may get paid late, inconsistently, or not at all.
What to do: Make sure the contract clearly states:
Exact amount
Payment frequency (e.g. 5th of every month)
Payment method (bank/M-PESA)
5. Not Getting a Copy of the Contract
What players do wrong: They sign and leave the only copy with the club.
Why it’s dangerous: You have no proof of what was agreed. If a dispute arises, you’re at the mercy of the club’s records.
What to do: Always leave with a signed copy of the full contract.
6. No Legal or Agent Review
What players do wrong: They negotiate or sign alone, without advice.
Why it’s dangerous: You might agree to clauses that are one-sided or even illegal.
What to do: Get someone experienced to review the contract. Even better, work with a licensed player agent or sports lawyer.
Sign with Confidence, Not Regret
Too many Kenyan players get exploited because they don’t know their rights. Signing a contract should be a moment of growth in your career—not a trap. Read and understand every clause, get promises in writing, demand fairness and clarity, keep a signed copy, and never negotiate alone.
At XP Sports, we help players understand, negotiate, and protect their careers through our online learning platform, contract review support, and access to vetted agents.
📩 Need help with a contract? Reach out to us at info@xpsports.org