Vipers Sports Club have appointed John Luyinda, popularly known as Ayala, to take charge of the first team following the departure of French coach Denis Lavagne.

The club announced the decision on Monday, with Luyinda pledging to help the Venoms maintain the standards expected at Kitende. “Having the responsibility to lead Vipers SC is an honour,” Luyinda said. “My focus is now on helping the players to reach the standards that we expect at this incredible club.”

Vipers confirmed his responsibility for the first team but did not specify the duration of his assignment. Luyinda is familiar with the club, having rejoined the technical bench in 2024 as assistant to Serbian coach Nikola Kavazovic. 

He later worked alongside Fred Muhumuza and most recently served as Lavagne’s assistant. He and Muhumuza guided Vipers to the Uganda Premier League and Uganda Cup double in the 2024/25 season. 

Luyinda also served as assistant to Ivan Minnaert last season, when the club retained the league title. Before joining Vipers, he held coaching roles at Wakiso Giants, KCCA and Police.

Vipers said Luyinda’s experience would be valuable as they seek to improve and defend their league title. “There is still a lot to fight for this season,” he said, pledging to unite the team and reward the fans’ support.