Victor Wanyama, the former Harambee Stars captain, was once a name that carried immense promise in the football world, particularly for Kenyan fans.
Recognized globally, he made history as the first Kenyan to play in the English Premier League, leaving a lasting impact on the game.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Wanyama’s football journey began at a young age, where he quickly showcased exceptional talent on the pitch. In 2010, he earned his first international contract with Beerschot AC in Belgium. After a series of standout performances, he caught the attention of Celtic FC, who signed him in 2011.
At Celtic, Wanyama made history during a memorable UEFA Champions League match, where the Scottish side stunned Barcelona 2-1. His commanding presence in midfield was instrumental in securing the victory, earning global recognition.
Premier League Dream and Injury Struggles
Following his impressive displays at Celtic, Southampton FC signed him in 2013 for a then-record $12.5 million, making him the most expensive Kenyan footballer at the time.
His dominance in midfield continued, leading to a move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2016, where he joined for $11 million.
However, his time at Spurs was met with injury setbacks. A serious knee injury led to multiple surgeries, affecting his playing time.
“When I got back from injury, I did not get enough chances to play and enjoy football,” Wanyama revealed in a past interview.
In 2019, struggling to regain a starting spot at Tottenham, he made the switch to CF Montréal in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Though the competition in MLS was less intense compared to the Premier League, Wanyama still made his mark. However, his performances were inconsistent due to lingering injury problems.
Exit from International Football
In 2021, Wanyama announced that he would no longer play for Harambee Stars, citing:
- The chaotic nature of the national team’s management
- Disorganization and lack of support
- Poor infrastructure affecting Kenyan football
His claims were evident, as Kenya struggled during AFCON and World Cup qualifiers. He also noted that juggling both club and national team duties was difficult, especially while dealing with injury setbacks.
Legacy and Impact
After years of battling injuries and tactical changes, Wanyama stepped away from the spotlight. However, his legacy remains intact as one of Kenya’s greatest-ever midfielders.
From making history in the Champions League to breaking into the Premier League, his story will continue to inspire many aspiring footballers.
by KELVIN NJENGA
