Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has cleared the air on Masoud Juma’s unexpected inclusion in Kenya’s provisional squad for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). The tournament, set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, only permits players who are active in their respective domestic leagues making Juma’s selection a topic of intense scrutiny.
Masoud Juma, 28, had not played in the Kenyan Premier League since 2017, when he made headlines as the league’s top scorer with Kariobangi Sharks. Since then, he has plied his trade across multiple countries, with his most recent stint being in Iran with Esteghlal FC, where he scored two goals in 11 appearances during the 2024/2025 season.
Amid speculation surrounding his eligibility, McCarthy revealed that Juma recently signed with a club in Kenya’s National Super League. This move has officially registered him within the domestic football framework, thereby making him eligible for CHAN 2024 selection.
“Yes, Masoud has returned home and registered with a local club. That registration makes him eligible, and as a coach, it would be foolish not to consider a player of his experience and quality,” McCarthy said during a media briefing.
McCarthy emphasized that his past relationship with Juma whom he signed for Cape Town City in 2018 gives him confidence in the striker’s ability to impact the current squad positively. He pointed out Juma’s extensive international experience across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, highlighting his potential role as a mentor for the team’s younger players.
Juma has also been involved in previous Harambee Stars squads, earning recognition for his finishing ability and high work rate. Now back on Kenyan soil, his presence could prove vital as Kenya prepares for its CHAN challenge on home turf.
The coach confirmed they are monitoring Juma’s fitness and form in training. Should he meet the technical bench’s expectations, he will likely feature in the final squad a development that adds much-needed experience to the team.
Juma’s return marks a full-circle moment, rekindling his domestic career while offering a potential leadership role in Kenya’s pursuit of CHAN glory.
