Mbarara City, gearing up for the second round of the Uganda Premier League, has bid farewell to five players in a strategic squad reshuffle, The-SportsNation can confirm.

The quintet released by the Ankole Lions includes Methodius Jungu, Richard Wandyaka, Pius Kaggwa, Jonnie Mugweri, and Joel Abaliwano.

Jungu, who spent two years with Mbarara City after transferring from Bright Stars, heads the list of departures. Despite his tenure, the club has opted for changes in their lineup.

Experienced midfielder Pius Kaggwa, a late addition in August last year from UPDF, struggled to secure consistent playing time, despite his noteworthy background Police FC.

Richard Wandyaka, also acquired in August, faced limited playing opportunities following his move from BUL, where he had a six-year stint.

Defender Jonnie Mugweri, signed in July 2022 from Kajjansi United on a three-year deal, found himself on the fringes, unable to cement a regular spot in the lineup.

Joel Abaliwano, formerly associated with Gaddafi and Onduparaka, is another player deemed surplus to requirements in the reshaping of the Mbarara City squad.

Ending the first round in 11th place with 17 points, just two above the relegation zone, Mbarara City, under coaches Wasswa Bbosa and Zaidi Byekwaso, aims to bolster their ranks during the ongoing January transfer window to strengthen their position for the upcoming second round.