Former Harambee Stars captain and arguably Kenya’s most accomplished football export, Victor Wanyama has expressed a strong desire to return to international football with the Kenyan national team, the Harambee Stars.

In an interview with BBC Sport Africa, the former captain revealed, “Things have changed. The way the federation manages the players and the national team has already convinced me.”

Wanyama’s relationship with the national team has been rocky since he last played in 2020, following a fallout with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

He made his international debut at just 15 years old in 2007 but stepped away from the squad amid concerns over the federation’s professionalism. However, recent developments have rekindled his interest in returning to the fold.

The 33-year-old midfielder has been in discussions with Kenya’s head coach, Benni McCarthy, who has been encouraging him to come back.

“I’ve spoken to him a few times, and he was trying to convince me to go back,” Wanyama said. “He’s a big manager. He has been at Manchester United. Obviously, he’s experienced, and he’s the one that Kenya needs.”

Wanyama’s change of heart is also influenced by his brother, McDonald Mariga, who now serves as the FKF’s vice president under a new administration elected in December. With a renewed sense of optimism surrounding Kenyan football, Wanyama hinted that an announcement regarding his international future could be imminent.

“I’m thinking about it, and very soon I’ll be making an announcement,” he said.

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