Harambee Stars winger Job Ochieng is making steady strides in Spain, embracing growth at Real Sociedad while drawing inspiration from Spanish international Mikel Oyarzabal.
Ochieng, who recently made his senior debut for Kenya in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Seychelles, has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young prospects in Kenyan football. His near-miss against Seychelles, where his strike hit the post before Ryan Ogam converted the rebound, highlighted his attacking instincts and hunger for goals.
Reflecting on his international experience, Ochieng credits Kenya’s head coach Benni McCarthy for instilling confidence in his game. According to the winger, McCarthy has given him the freedom to express himself on the pitch while encouraging him to play without fear. Ochieng insists that his approach remains simple taking one game at a time and focusing on consistent improvement.
At Real Sociedad, the youngster has already been exposed to elite football environments, training alongside seasoned internationals. Among them, captain Mikel Oyarzabal stands out as a major influence. Ochieng admires Oyarzabal’s leadership, technical ability, and professionalism, qualities he hopes to mirror as he climbs the ranks in Spanish football.
His journey, however, has not been without challenges. Starting at Ligi Ndogo Academy in Nairobi, Ochieng’s dream of playing in Europe was made possible through the support of his community, who fundraised to help him move to Spain at just 17. Life abroad was far from easy, but he found support in coaches and mentors who provided accommodation and encouragement during his early struggles.
After an unsuccessful trial at Las Palmas, his breakthrough arrived when his highlights were shared with an agency, leading to a successful trial at Real Sociedad. From there, he earned a two-year contract and began his progression through the club’s ranks. He featured for Sociedad’s C team before becoming a regular for the B side, making 19 appearances last season.
Now in the current campaign, Ochieng has already made his mark with a memorable goal against Real Zaragoza. His performances underline both confidence and maturity, proof that his development in Spain is paying off. For Kenyan football, Ochieng’s rise represents not just personal triumph but also a glimpse of the next generation of talent ready to shine on the global stage.
