Benni McCarthy has named a 26-man provisional Harambee Stars squad for the forthcoming friendlies against Chad, with several surprise inclusions. However, notable absences are the ones that signal a strategic shift in Kenya’s football direction. The squad, set to prepare for the 2027 AFCON, reflects McCarthy’s vision of building a younger, more dynamic team for the future.
One of the most eye-catching surprise additions is the return of veteran midfielder Victor Wanyama. He last represented Kenya in 2020. Wanyama, now 33 and playing in Scotland, brings invaluable experience and leadership to a squad. McCarthy is keen to blend him with some of Kenya’s emerging talent. His comeback is seen as a boost to the midfield as Kenya aims to be competitive in the continental tournaments.
However, the squad also features some striking omissions. Captain and lead striker Michael Olunga is notably absent, as are defenders Joseph Okumu, Erick Ouma, and Daniel Anyembe. These absences have raised eyebrows given their previous importance to the team. McCarthy appears to be deliberately moving away from relying on established stars. Instead, he is focusing on integrating younger players and fresh faces. Some of whom are Kenneth Nyamwaya and Swaleh Pamba, who have earned their maiden call-ups.
The team consists of the following players:
- Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Brian Bwire, Sepstianos Wekesa
- Defenders: Lewis Bandi, Siraj Mohammed, Abud Omar, Brian Mandela, Daniel Sakari, Alphonce Omija, Swaleh Pamba, Kenneth Nyamwaya
- Midfielders: Victor Wanyama, Timothy Ouma, David Sakwa, James Kinyanjui, Brian Musa, Ben Stanley Omondi, William Lenkupae, Boniface Muchiri, Alpha Onyango, Mohammed Bajaber, Adam Wilson
- Forwards: Moses Shumah, Emmanuel Osoro, Beja Nyamawi.
This approach aligns with McCarthy’s long-term strategy to prepare Kenya for the 2027 AFCON. The country will be co-hosting the tournament, with hopes of making a significant impact. McCarthy has openly stated his ambition for Kenya not just to participate but to reach the semi-finals or final of the tournament. By fostering a younger squad now, he aims to build cohesion and experience that will peak in two years’ time.