Gor Mahia winger Sharrif Musa has opened up about how he manages criticism from fans and uses it as motivation to grow as both a player and a person. After months of hard work and perseverance, his recent form at Gor Mahia has earned him a well-deserved recall to the Harambee Stars ahead of the upcoming friendly matches against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal in Turkey.
Since joining Gor Mahia in January 2024, Musa has experienced mixed fortunes. While his pace, directness, and one-on-one ability have made him a constant threat to opponents, his inconsistency in decision-making and end product has occasionally drawn frustration from some supporters. Despite the divided opinions, Musa has learned to turn negativity into strength rather than discouragement.
“Their stones are my foundation,” he said when asked about how he deals with criticism. “A good, healthy tree that bears fruit is the one that gets pelted with pebbles. You have to use those moments to make yourself stronger.”
Musa believes that challenges are a natural part of every footballer’s journey. For him, maintaining a positive mindset is crucial in converting difficult moments into opportunities for growth. “As human beings, we all have our ups and downs. If you let criticism demoralize you, it will. But if you take the positive out of those moments, they make you better,” he explained.
His latest national team call-up marks his first return to the Harambee Stars setup since March 2024, when he was an unused substitute during Kenya’s Malawi 4 Nations tour. Musa attributes his comeback to consistent effort and a renewed sense of purpose.
“It feels amazing to be back,” he said. “It’s very competitive to make it here. Everyone dreams of getting a call-up, and if you slip, someone else takes your place. I’ve been working hard, and I thank God for another opportunity.”
Looking ahead to the friendlies against Equatorial Guinea and Senegal, Musa remains optimistic. “I’m just staying confident about the moment I’ll be given, and I know everything will be good.”
He also expressed his appreciation for those who have stood by him throughout his journey. “I want to thank my teammates at Gor Mahia and the coaches for helping me become a better player,” he added.
Musa’s resilience and mental strength continue to define his footballing path, as he aims to cement his place both at Gor Mahia and on the international stage with Harambee Stars.
