John ‘Ayala’ Luyinda takes charge of Vipers
David GOMBE
Vipers SC have confirmed the appointment of John Luyinda alias ‘Ayala’ as head coach of the first team on introduced basis.
Luyinda, who has been serving as assistant coach, has been elevated to take charge of the Venoms following the departure of Frenchman Denis Lavagne.
“Having the responsibility to lead Vipers SC is an honour. I know what it takes to succeed here; my focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club, which we know that this group is more than capable of producing,” Ayala said.
“I have worked with a number of the players already and I have total belief in their talents, dedication and ability to be successful here. There is still a lot to fight for this season, we are ready to pull everyone together and give the fans the performances that their loyal support deserves.”
Luyinda boasts vast experience in the Uganda Premier League, having previously worked in coaching roles at Wakiso Giants FC, KCCA FC, Police FC and Vipers SC.
He first served the Venoms as assistant to Abdallah Mubiru in 2016 before re-joining in 2024 under Serbian tactician Nikola Kavazovic.
Ayala co-coached the team alongside Fred Muhumuza, guiding Vipers to a domestic double the Uganda Premier League and Uganda Cup in 2025, and was also part of Ivan Minnaert’s backroom staff that delivered another league title last season.
He featured for Kampala United, Maji FC, SC Villa, and KCCA FC during his time as a player.