Does Harambee Stars still need Wanyama?

The return of former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama to the national team has elicited mixed reactions across Kenya’s football landscape.

Stars coach Benni McCarthy confirmed the veteran midfielder’s inclusion in the squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Chad scheduled for June 7 and June 10 in Morocco, marking Wanyama’s return to the team after nearly four years in international retirement.

Wanyama last featured for the Stars during a 2022 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Comoros on November 15, 2020.

A year later, he announced his retirement from international duty on September 27, 2021, following a fallout with the then-coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee, who stripped him of the captaincy in favour of striker Michael Olunga.

McCarthy’s decision to recall the Dunfermline Athletic midfielder has generated divided opinion, with some football stakeholders hailing the move as timely and strategic, while others believe it undermines the progress of emerging talents in the country.

Former Kisumu Posta striker and ex-Harambee Stars forward Elijah Onsika is among those who saw the move as a non-beneficial factor in the rebuilding process.

Onsika, a CAF coaching instructor, questioned the logic behind bringing Wanyama back into the fold, stating that there are a number of young talents within the local leagues deserving international exposure.

“Benni McCarthy has a large pool of young players who can play better,” Onsika told the Standard.

“It is time for the old players to give way. They have had their time, and unfortunately, we have nothing major to show for it. Kenya should be building a team for the future, not looking backwards.”

For Onsika, a good dancer knows when to leave the stage.

His sentiments are much alike with many fans online.

A user identified as Manyasi posted on X (formerly twitter): “Myles Lewis-Skelly got his first call-up at 18 years. Aldrine Kibet is hitting 22 and still no first team call-up. Instead, Wanyama is back, baby. Benni McCarthy ain’t him.”

Another fan, Fred Engosia, chimed in: “Young players should be given a chance. Look at serious teams like Spain.”

However, not all are against Wanyama’s return. Former Gor Mahia head coach and football coach instructor Bob Oyugi called for patience and support for the new technical bench.

“Wanyama brings experience and leadership to the team. Tactically, nobody knows why McCarthy needs him, but the coach must be given the space to create his own system and build chemistry,” said Oyugi.

According to Oyugi, his influence in training, professionalism, and guidance to young midfielders could be the spark that ignites a new era.

“You cannot build a house by throwing away all the old bricks. With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, having a seasoned leader like Wanyama in camp might offer more than just minutes on the pitch,” said the 1993 Premier League champion with Gor Mahia.

Agoro Sare High School coach Jerry Opondo, who led Ambira High School to win the Siaya County football title last year and now hopes to replicate that success in Homa Bay and Nyanza, echoed Oyugi’s sentiments.

“Despite the rise of young talent, Wanyama remains a proven leader. His presence alone can elevate the mood of the camp. Many players will learn from him,” Opondo stated.

“Stars are rebuilding, and leadership will be key. Critics should allow McCarthy to implement his vision.”

The squad features a balanced mix of seasoned campaigners and exciting new talent, as McCarthy continues to shape his team.

Among the notable inclusions are Kenneth Nyamwaya and Swaleh Pamba, both earning their maiden call-ups to the senior national team.

This marks McCarthy’s second camp with the Harambee Stars, and the upcoming friendlies will offer a key opportunity to assess the squad’s depth and readiness as Kenya builds toward the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August.