Kenya’s rising star Ryan Ogam is on the verge of making his long-awaited breakthrough into European football with a move to the Austrian Bundesliga. The Harambee Stars striker, who lit up the CHAN 2024 tournament, is reported to have agreed terms with Austrian top-flight side Wolfsberger AC, bringing him closer to realizing his dream of playing abroad.
Ogam has never hidden his ambition to test himself in the competitive ranks of European football. His standout performances at the continental stage have only reinforced his credentials as one of Kenya’s most promising attacking talents. During the 2024-25 season with Tusker FC, Ogam netted 13 goals by the midway point, showcasing his lethal finishing ability and eye for goal. An untimely injury briefly slowed his momentum, but his return to fitness coincided perfectly with the CHAN tournament, where he proved to be Kenya’s difference maker.
At CHAN 2024, Ogam delivered when it mattered most, scoring two decisive match-winning goals against Morocco and Zambia in the group stage. His clinical edge, composure under pressure, and ability to lead the line earned him recognition across the continent and placed him firmly in the spotlight for potential suitors abroad.
The move to Wolfsberger represents a significant step forward for the striker. The Austrian side, one of the country’s oldest clubs founded in 1931, finished fourth in the Austrian Bundesliga last season. Their strong domestic campaign secured them a place in the Europa Conference League qualifiers, where they currently hold an advantage against Cypriot outfit Omonia Nicosia. If Wolfsberger progress, Ogam could find himself competing in European competition within weeks of his arrival.
This transfer also marks a progression from other opportunities that had previously emerged for the forward. Earlier in the year, he came close to joining Algerian giants USM Alger before the move fell through, while Swedish side Ostersunds FK also pursued him without success. Now, with a deal in Austria nearing completion, the dream of playing in Europe is about to become reality for Ogam.
For Kenya, Ogam’s success would be a boost to the Harambee Stars’ attacking depth and a source of inspiration for many upcoming talents. His journey highlights the importance of the CHAN tournament as a springboard for players to earn professional contracts abroad.
