As the countdown begins for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), Kenya’s Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy faces an emerging dilemma. With the tournament strictly reserved for players active in their domestic leagues, a number of Kenya’s key stars could miss out due to growing interest from foreign clubs.
Here’s a look at five local-based players who are either on the verge of sealing international moves or have been strongly linked with clubs abroad putting their CHAN eligibility in serious doubt.
1. Ryan Ogam
Tusker FC striker Ryan Ogam is one of the standout names potentially missing from the CHAN squad. He narrowly missed out on a January move to Algerian outfit USM Alger after negotiations fell through. However, the forward remains open about his aspirations to play abroad, and with interest in his services still strong, a last-minute move could materialize before the tournament, ruling him out.
2. Emmanuel Osoro
Talanta FC’s in-form striker Emmanuel Osoro has been a consistent performer in the FKF Premier League and recently caught the attention of several suitors. While Osoro has yet to confirm any deal, he has admitted receiving both local and international offers. His decision over the coming weeks could have a big impact on McCarthy’s forward line for the tournament.
3. Mohammed Bajaber
Midfield engine Mohammed Bajaber of Kenya Police FC is reportedly being tracked by Tanzanian Premier League giants Yanga SC and Azam FC. If a deal is finalized, the cross-border switch would immediately make him ineligible for CHAN, as CAF rules only allow players who ply their trade within their home country’s league system.
4. Austin Odhiambo
Gor Mahia playmaker Austin Odhiambo has long been admired beyond Kenyan borders. Belgian side Gent has previously shown interest in the midfielder, impressed by his creativity and versatility. Odhiambo could be lured away before the CHAN window, leaving Kenya’s midfield lacking the spark he so often provides.
5. Moses Shumah
Forward Moses Shumah has already completed a move from Kakamega Homeboyz to Zambian giants Power Dynamos. While the move marks a significant step forward in his club career including exposure to the CAF Champions League it automatically rules him out of CHAN 2024.
These potential departures highlight the balancing act McCarthy must perform promoting player ambition while preserving a competitive squad for a tournament designed to showcase local talent. With CHAN set to kick off in August, the next few weeks will be crucial as Kenya finalizes its roster under mounting pressure from the transfer market.
