Victor Wanyama to make comeback at Harambee Stars

He quit the national team in September last year.

In Summary

• His return was announced on Thursday by Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts CS Ababu Namwamba.

• "Am delighted Victor Wanyama has agreed to return fully to Harambee Stars, rescinding his earlier decision to exit the team,"Namwamba said.

Footballer Victor Wanyama with Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts CS Ababu Namwamba.
Footballer Victor Wanyama with Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts CS Ababu Namwamba.
Image: ABABU NAMWAMBA

Kenyan footballer Victor Wanyama is set to return to Harambee Stars, about one year after he announced his retirement from international football.

His return was announced on Thursday by Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts CS Ababu Namwamba.

The former Harambee Stars captain had met the CS before he made the announcement.

"I am delighted Victor Wanyama has agreed to return fully to Harambee Stars, rescinding his earlier decision to exit the team," Namwamba said.

"In our mission to rebuild our football and elevate our national teams, our elite players must be at the heart of this renaissance. Ogada Olunga too is in."

In June, Football Kenya Federation presidential hopeful Twaha Mbarak said he paid the Kenyan legend a courtesy call at his home in Montreal, Canada and he was considering a return to international football after calling time on his international career.

Wanyama retired from international football after 14 years of service for the nation in September 2021.

Wanyama in a statement recalled his dream of wearing the national colours and fulfilling that burning desire. 

"While growing up,  it was always my dream to get the chance to represent my country," he stated.

He had played for the Stars 64 times scoring seven goals.

"From making my debut against Nigeria to captaining the team at the African Cup of Nations, in Egypt, these past 14 years have gone beyond what I ever thought was possible," he added.

"But all good things must come to an end and after long consideration, I have made a really difficult decision to retire from international football."

Following his announcement, Wanyama set his focus on his club career in the Major Soccer League but revealed he would still be a strong supporter for Kenya and would still remain actively engaged in the game.