Former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama has hinted at a return to the national team Harambee Stars.
In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), Wanyama hinted that he might come out of retirement to play for the national team, citing productive talks with current coach Benni McCarthy.
The experienced midfielder, who retired from national duty in 2021, revealed that McCarthy had made several attempts to convince him to reconsider his decision.
“I’ve spoken to him [McCarthy] a few times, and he’s been trying to persuade me to come back,” Wanyama told the BBC.
“He’s a top coach, having worked at Manchester United. He brings a lot of experience and is exactly what Kenya needs right now,” he added.
Wanyama revealed that he would announce the potential return very soon, but did not disclose details on the exact date.
Wanyama, who currently plays for Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish second tier, noted that the new leadership at Football Kenya Federation (FKF) was doing a good job and this might play a role in his decision.
“Things have changed. The way the federation manages the players and the team is now different,” he noted.
Affectionately known as the "Lion of Muthurwa," Wanyama is one of Kenya's most distinguished footballers, celebrated for his pivotal role with the Harambee Stars.
Wanyama debuted for the Kenyan national team in May 2007 at just 15 years old, facing Nigeria in a friendly match. He quickly became a key player, featuring in all of Kenya’s 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
In 2013, he was appointed captain of the Harambee Stars, succeeding Dennis Oliech. Wanyama was Kenya’s captain during the 2019 edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt, guiding the team in the nation's first appearance at the tournament in 15 years.
In September 2021, Wanyama announced his retirement from international football citing the chaotic nature of the national team's management, disorganization and lack of support and poor infrastructure in Kenyan football.
He ended his time with the national team with over 60 caps and seven goals to focus on his club career.
