Q&A with Alfred Osei

Solid, unflappable, quietly confident, Alfred Osei has been a key member of the club virtually since he arrived in 2014 from Ghana. As he celebrates his 29th birthday, we dive into his background, what he feels sets Kaya Makati apart, his special partnership with Masa Omura, his passion outside of playing, and much more.

How did you get started with football?

I started playing football at a very young age, it’s the number one sport in my country, and the passion and respect the people had for it made me fall in love with it.

You’re known as a steely figure in the squad, a man seemingly unfazed by anything. What’s your secret?

I guess that is just my nature. I like to accept challenges and move forward calmly.

You’ve had quite the footballing journey so far, how did you find your way to Kaya Makati?

I played through the levels of a juvenile (youth) to the Premiership in Ghana, and had a couple of trials in Europe (including Bolton Wanderers in England). I was introduced to Kaya through a friend. I tried out [in 2013, and officially joined soon after]. Now here I am.

What has stood out to you in the years you’ve spent with Kaya?

The respect we have for each other within the team is special — from the management, coaches, PTs (physical therapists), and especially the bond we have together as teammates, irrespective of nationalities and backgrounds.

Aside from playing, you’re also a coach at the Kaya Academy. Have you always had a passion for coaching? How has the experience been so far?

Yes because, I didn’t get proper coaching as a young player, so I had it in the back of my mind to improve juvenile football someday in my country. There have been ups and downs, but it’s been fun and successful.

What is something people don’t know about you?

I have a great sense of humor and am more of a family person. Also, I love butter cookies. ?

What’s the ultimate goal for you?

To have a peaceful home and make it to heaven

It’s clear you’ve got a special relationship with your center back partner Masanari Omura both on and off the pitch. What do you attribute that to?

It’s because of the respect we’ve had for each other. I have learnt a lot from him because, he is truly a professional in the sport. We don’t need to communicate verbally when playing sometimes, just body language is enough for us. Lastly, he is crazy ?


What do you enjoy most about living in the Philippines? Anything you’ve found unusual?

The warm reception and hospitable nature of the Filipino people. 
It was strange seeing balot, and the crazy traffic.

What do you wish you could bring to this country from Ghana?

I would love to see people rushing to purchase tickets to watch the games, irrespective of age and distance, and to see the spirit of support and passion for the game as it is in Ghana.