Burkina Faso striker Cheick Djibril Ouattara has been appointed captain of APR FC, taking over from Niyomugabo Claude, who departed the club after completing his contract.
APR FC confirmed Ouattara’s appointment on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, following an impressive spell in which the forward established himself as one of the club’s key players.
Ouattara, who joined APR FC in January 2025 from Algerian club JS Kabylie, takes over the captain’s armband previously held by Niyomugabo, who had served as skipper since December 2023 after replacing Fitina Omborenga.
The Burkina Faso international will be supported by Ugandan midfielder Ronald Ssekiganda, who has been named first vice-captain, while Nshimiyimana Yunusu will serve as second vice-captain after renewing his contract with the club.
Ouattara has enjoyed a remarkable period at APR FC. After joining midway through the 2024/25 season, he scored 12 goals in 10 league matches, finishing as the second-highest scorer in the Rwanda Premier League behind Umar Abba, who netted 13 goals.
His performances helped APR FC secure the league title and the Peace Cup in the 2024/25 season.
The striker maintained his form in the 2025/26 campaign, leading APR FC’s attack as the club won three major domestic trophies — the Rwanda Premier League, the Peace Cup, and the FERWAFA Super Cup.
Ouattara finished the season as the league’s top scorer with 18 goals and was among the five nominees for the Rwanda Premier League Player of the Season award, which was eventually won by Burundian forward Girumugisha Jean Claude.
The appointment highlights APR FC’s confidence in Ouattara’s leadership as the club seeks to continue its dominance in Rwandan football and strengthen its squad ahead of upcoming competitions.
