The Harambee Stars have received a significant morale boost with the sensational return of veteran midfielder Victor Wanyama, who has been named in the provisional squad for Kenya’s upcoming international friendlies against Chad. The matches, scheduled for June 7 and 10, 2025, will take place in Morocco and mark a critical phase in the national team’s preparation for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Wanyama’s return is undoubtedly the headline inclusion in a squad that combines experience and promising new talent. The former Tottenham Hotspur and Celtic midfielder had retired from international football but has now made the decision to rejoin the national setup. His comeback is seen as a timely boost, offering much-needed leadership, tactical discipline, and midfield stability.
The presence of the experienced midfielder is expected to inject confidence and composure into the team. His decision to return has been met with optimism, as it reflects growing belief in the direction the team is taking under current head coach Benni McCarthy.
McCarthy, who is entering his second stint with the national team, appears to be building a balanced squad that blends veterans with emerging talent. The provisional list includes both local and foreign-based players who bring a wide range of skills and experience.
Among the newcomers earning their first senior national team call-ups are Kenneth Nyamwaya of Bidco United FC and Swaleh Pamba from Bandari FC. Their selection signifies a forward-looking approach, aiming to develop and integrate young players into the core of the team.
The friendlies against Chad offer an important opportunity for McCarthy to assess the squad’s strength, depth, and tactical cohesion ahead of CHAN 2025. As the tournament will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in August, a strong showing in the friendlies is essential to build momentum and fine-tune preparations.
The squad features a solid goalkeeping unit including Faruk Shikhalo (Bandari FC), Sepstianos Wekesa (Kariobangi Sharks FC), and Brian Bwire (Polokwane City FC). In defense, McCarthy has called upon a mix of experienced players and rising stars such as Siraj Mohammed, Abud Omar, Daniel Sakari, and Lewis Bandi.
The midfield will be anchored by Wanyama, alongside other capable players including Alpha Onyango, Timothy Ouma, Boniface Muchiri, and Mohammed Bajaber. New faces like David Sakwa and Adam Wilson also add to the competition for places.
Upfront, the team will rely on the attacking talents of Moses Shumah, Beja Nyamawi, and Emmanuel Osoro. These forwards will have the chance to impress and solidify their roles as Kenya looks to sharpen its attack ahead of competitive fixtures.
Players are scheduled to report to camp on Friday, June 2, where intensive preparations will begin in earnest. The friendlies not only serve as a tune-up for CHAN but also represent a key moment for players to make a case for their inclusion in the final tournament squad.
With renewed optimism surrounding the Harambee Stars and the return of a national icon in Wanyama, the stage is set for an exciting new chapter under McCarthy’s leadership. Kenyan fans will be keenly watching as the team looks to build form and unity ahead of a potentially historic run in CHAN 2025.
