Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has showered praise on versatile star Manzur Okwaro following his outstanding performances during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Okwaro, who plays his club football with KCB FC, was one of Kenya’s standout performers at the tournament, helping the team reach the quarter-finals. Originally a defender, the 23-year-old was deployed in central midfield, where he impressed with his composure, energy, and tactical awareness. His performances did not go unnoticed, as he is now attracting interest from clubs abroad.
After Kenya’s elimination from the competition, Okwaro penned an emotional message to fans, expressing both his disappointment and gratitude. In response, McCarthy lauded him as a “gem” and promised to make the most of his talent in future assignments. The South African tactician’s words underline the growing trust he has in Okwaro, who has proven to be a dependable figure in multiple positions.
Okwaro’s message to fans reflected the pride and determination within the Harambee Stars camp. “We gave it everything for the country at the quarter-final stage but sometimes, the game is cruel. Falling short hurts but I am grateful for every moment in this journey,” he wrote. He went on to thank the fans who filled stadiums with unwavering support and the technical bench that guided the team.
“This is not the end,” he continued. “The history we made together was just the beginning of a great chapter in Kenyan football. We’ll rise again, stronger.”
The Harambee Stars’ campaign may have ended earlier than hoped, but the tournament highlighted several positives, with Okwaro emerging as one of the biggest winners. His ability to adapt seamlessly across different roles has made him a vital asset for the national team, and his leadership qualities shone through both on and off the pitch.
Kenya will now shift focus to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where they face The Gambia on September 5 before hosting Seychelles on September 9. McCarthy is expected to count heavily on players like Okwaro as the Harambee Stars aim to build on the momentum from CHAN 2024 and take another step forward in their footballing journey
