Manzur in action against Madagascar during the CHAN quarterfinal finals clash at Kasarani. PHOTO/POOLBarely two weeks after his standout performances at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), Harambee Stars defender Manzur Okwaro has signed a two-year deal with Nairobi United FC.
The 19-year-old, who left the bankers for the FKF Cup champions, was unveiled just before CAF’s deadline for Confederation Cup squad submissions.
He successfully completed medicals and was officially registered for continental duty.
Although his signing-on fee remains undisclosed, sources say Nairobi United put forward an attractive package with a clause allowing the youngster to move to Europe in the future.
“Nairobi United tabled a good offer with a clause that would not stop him from making a move to Europe. We believe under coach Nicholas Muyoti he will develop and gain the much-needed experience in their maiden Confederation Cup season,” a source close to the player told The Star.
Okwaro had been strongly linked with Egyptian side Al Masry SC after scouts tracked him at CHAN, but the deal fell through.
His decision to join Nairobi United is seen as a step to gain more top-level experience before securing a European move.
The former St. Anthony Boys High School standout was one of Kenya’s revelations at CHAN, helping the team reach the quarterfinals.
His displays drew attention both locally and abroad, boosting his reputation as one of the country’s brightest prospects.
Okwaro made his senior Harambee Stars debut earlier in March during a World Cup qualifier against Gabon at Nyayo Stadium. He later featured for the Rising Stars at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Cairo.
National team coach Benni McCarthy has already spoken highly of the versatile left-back, who can also play in central defence and midfield.
“He is physically very good. I initially wanted to play him at left back, but in training sessions I realized he has an enormous engine. He’s young, athletic, just 20 years old, and afraid of nothing,” McCarthy said after deploying Okwaro in midfield during Kenya’s CHAN win over DR Congo.
With Nairobi United preparing for their maiden continental campaign, the teenage defender is expected to play a key role both in the FKF Premier League and on the CAF stage.
