Austine Odhiambo Replaces Victor Wanyama in Harambee Stars Squad for Chad Friendlies

Victor Wanyama, initially set for a much-anticipated return to the national team, has withdrawn from Kenya's upcoming friendlies against Chad due to personal commitments. Gor Mahia’s Austine Odhiambo steps in as his replacement.

Victor Wanyama’s long-awaited return to the Harambee Stars has been put on hold. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has confirmed that the veteran midfielder, who had been named in the provisional squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Chad, will not feature in the matches due to personal commitments in the United Kingdom.

Wanyama, now plying his trade with Dunfermline Athletic FC in Scotland, was set to don the national colors for the first time since announcing his international retirement back in 2021. His potential return had sparked excitement among fans eager to see the former Tottenham Hotspur and CF Montréal star anchor the midfield once again.

However, FKF announced on Thursday that Wanyama had requested to be excused from the fixtures, a request that head coach Benni McCarthy has respected.

In a swift response, McCarthy has handed a national team call-up to Gor Mahia FC’s creative midfielder Austine Odhiambo. The young playmaker has been in outstanding form in recent FKF Premier League matches, making a strong case for national team selection since bouncing back from injury earlier this year. His addition to the squad offers a fresh spark and additional attacking options in midfield as Kenya gears up for the crucial friendlies.

“We fully understand and respect Victor’s personal commitments and remain grateful for his ongoing dedication to Kenyan football,” FKF said in a statement. “We’re also excited to welcome Austine Odhiambo, whose performances have earned him this opportunity.”

The Harambee Stars are set to face Chad in two friendly matches scheduled for June 7 and June 10, 2025, in Morocco. These matches are part of the team’s broader preparations for the upcoming 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) slated for August.

The squad is expected to report to residential camp on Friday, June 2, 2025, as Kenya continues to build momentum and assess squad depth ahead of the continental showpiece.

Fans will be eager to see how Austine Odhiambo seizes his chance on the international stage, while holding out hope that Wanyama’s chapter with the Harambee Stars isn’t entirely closed just yet.