Ryan Ogam celebrates after scoring against Burundi/HANDOUT
After netting Kenya’s winning goal in their 1–0 victory over Burundi in Bujumbura on Thursday, Harambee Stars’ in-form forward Ryan Ogam has opened up about his life in Austria, describing his early months at Wolfsberger AC as a blend of challenge, growth and fulfilment.
The 24-year-old, who joined the Austrian Bundesliga club in September after an impressive showing at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), said he now feels “settled and hungry” to make a bigger mark both for his club and the national team.
Ogam completed his transfer to Wolfsberger AC on September 3 and was unveiled later that month, marking a major leap in his career after a standout spell with Tusker FC.
He made his debut on October 4 in a hard-fought win over Grazer AK at the Merkur Arena — an experience he describes as “the perfect start.”
“My time in Austria has been positive. Honestly, I didn’t expect to settle this quickly,” Ogam said.
“The support from everyone — from the ambassador to my teammates and coaches — has been incredible. They’ve made me feel part of a family, which makes everything easier, even on the pitch.”
He added that the environment at Wolfsberger has helped him focus on his football while adjusting to life off the pitch.
“It’s a different culture, a new system, but I’ve adapted well. I’m motivated to repay that support by working harder and contributing to goals. My first target is to get that opening goal, and from there, keep pushing to reach double figures.”
Ogam’s rise to prominence began during CHAN 2024, where his sharp instincts and composure in front of goal earned him widespread attention.
He scored against both Morocco and Zambia — performances that not only propelled Kenya to the quarterfinals but also caught the eyes of European scouts.
“It all started there,” he recalled. “CHAN gave me the exposure I needed. Playing against top teams helped me realise I could compete at a higher level. Austria was the next logical step.”
Since joining Wolfsberger AC, he has been learning new tactical systems and fitness routines that, he says, are sharpening his overall game.
“The level is higher — the intensity, the precision, the discipline — but that’s what every player dreams of. I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
Asked to compare the Kenyan Premier League to the Austrian Bundesliga, Ogam chose to focus on structure and professionalism rather than ability.
“The main difference is in organisation and consistency,” he explained. “In Austria, everything is planned — from training schedules to recovery. It’s a professional setup where every detail matters. Kenya is improving, though; the direction is right, and with more investment and exposure, we’ll get there.”
He said he has seen encouraging progress in the local scene, particularly in player conditioning, tactical training, and coaching standards under the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
“We have the talent back home; we just need systems that bring out the best in players.”
Despite the physical distance, Ogam said he continues to draw strength from Kenyan fans who have followed his journey from the beginning.
“The love from home has been overwhelming,” he said. “Even in Austria, people talk about Kenyan fans — how passionate and loyal they are. Knowing they’re behind me keeps me going. Every message, every post — it all reminds me who I’m representing.”
He often connects with his supporters online, sharing snippets from his training sessions and matchdays, reinforcing the bond between player and country.
Kenya’s 1–0 triumph over Burundi in Bujumbura, sealed by Ogam’s precise finish in the 78th minute, has lifted morale within the Harambee Stars camp ahead of their next World Cup qualifier against Cote d'Ivoire on Tuesday.
“We approached the Burundi match with focus and belief,” he said after the game. “It wasn’t an easy one, but we stayed disciplined and took our chance. Now we move forward with confidence. Every match matters if we want to reach the next level.”
Coach Benni McCarthy lauded the striker’s mentality and work ethic, describing him as “a player who understands the weight of the jersey.”
“Ryan has the right mindset — he’s driven, grounded, and learning fast,” McCarthy said. “His time in Austria is refining him, and we can already see that in how he reads the game.”
Away from football, Ogam is embracing the challenge of adapting to a new lifestyle. He has started learning German, exploring Austrian culture, and focusing on personal discipline — all while maintaining his physical conditioning.
“Football abroad is about more than talent,” he said. “It’s about adapting, staying consistent, and growing every day. I’m learning to manage pressure and enjoy the process. It’s shaping me both as a player and as a person.”
He also revealed that he hopes to inspire young Kenyan footballers to aim higher. “I want to be a reminder that it’s possible — that with hard work and the right mindset, you can make it anywhere. I’ll keep giving my best, not just for myself but for everyone who believes in me.”
Ogam’s story symbolises the evolution of the country’s football — young, ambitious, and increasingly global.
From CHAN 2024 to the Austrian Bundesliga, and now a match-winning strike in Bujumbura, his journey is fast becoming a beacon of belief for a generation that dares to dream beyond borders.
