The highly rated Kariobangi Sharks and Kenya U20 midfielder Andreas Odhiambo is set to depart for Norway on Wednesday, 2 April, to undergo trials with top-flight club Sarpsborg 08 FF, hoping to secure a move to the European side.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe promising youngster has been training with the Kenya U20 national team, Rising Stars, in preparation for the upcoming U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament scheduled to commence on Sunday, 27 April in Egypt.However, he left the national team camp on Tuesday to finalize his travel arrangements for the trials.##NAJAVA_MECA_8823503##Kariobangi Sharks CEO Linda Ambiyo confirmed the player’s departure and expressed confidence in his abilities, believing he will make a strong impression during the trials.“He has multiple trial offers on the table, but for now, he is heading to Norway to see how things unfold. We are well aware of his talent, and we are optimistic that he will succeed. As a club, we wish him the very best and hope he secures a contract,” said Ambiyo in an exclusive interview with Mozzart Sport.Kasarani Stadium roof complete in latest update ahead of CHAN [VIDEO]An alumnus of Highway Secondary School, Odhiambo has established himself as a key figure in the Sharks’ midfield this season. His performances have also earned him a crucial role in the Kenya U20 team, attracting interest from European clubs, including Swedish side AIK, where his teammate Humphrey Aroko recently underwent trials.Kariobangi Sharks head coach William Muluya has been full of praise for the midfielder, drawing comparisons to former club captain Patillah Omoto, who now plays for Posta Rangers.Michael Olunga to battle Sadio Mané, Mohamed Salah for prestigious award“Sometimes, when I watch Andreas, I see a young Patillah Omoto. He is emerging as a very talented midfielder,” Muluya remarked.“Considering he is just 17 years old, fresh from Highway Secondary School, and already competing at the Premier League level without prior experience in lower divisions, his future is incredibly bright.”Muluya also commended Highway Secondary School coach, Beldine Odemba, for playing a pivotal role in Odhiambo’s development. Odemba, who is also the head coach of Harambee Starlets and Kenya Police Bullets FC, is widely respected for her nurturing approach to young talents.FIFA steps in as match-fixing allegations against Patrick Matasi take a new turnSarpsborg 08 plays in the Eliteserien, the top flight of Norwegian football and are currently fourth on the table.The club has built a reputation for being a prime destination for African players looking to acclimatize to European football.Among those who have passed through its ranks are Malian Ismaila Coulibaly, now with Austrian club LASK, Krépin Diatta of Monaco, and Aaron Samuel of Molde. Odhiambo will be hoping to follow in their footsteps if he secures a move.Gor Mahia coach on why they failed to beat AFC Leopards in Mashemeji DerbyThe duration of Odhiambo’s trials remains uncertain, raising questions about his availability for the U20 AFCON in Egypt. His potential absence would be a significant blow to the national team’s midfield options.
