Kenyan international Victor Wanyama has signaled a potential comeback to the national football team, Harambee Stars, after nearly four years away from the international scene.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News Wanyama, who last donned the national team jersey in 2020, officially retired from international duty in September 2021 at the age of 30.His decision followed a period of being overlooked for selection during Kenya’s 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign and a reported fallout with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).##NAJAVA_MECA_8945104##The 33-year-old midfielder, who made his debut for Kenya as a 15-year-old in 2007, now appears open to a return.In an interview with BBC Africa, the former Tottenham Hotspur and Celtic star revealed he has held talks with current national team head coach, Benni McCarthy.“I’ve spoken to him [McCarthy] 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 kind of leader Kenya needs.”The appointment of McCarthy, a celebrated South African football legend and former Manchester United coach, as Harambee Stars head coach has reportedly influenced Wanyama’s reconsideration.Wanyama noted that he is giving the matter serious thought and hinted that an official announcement could come soon.”I’m thinking about it, and very soon I’ll be making an announcement,” he added.Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy reveals biggest problem ailing Manchester UnitedIn 2022, Wanyama had insisted he would not return to the national team unless FKF showed “more professionalism.” Now, he believes there has been meaningful change.“Things have changed,” Wanyama observed. “The way the federation manages the players and the national team -so that has already convinced me.”Part of this renewed confidence may stem from recent leadership changes at FKF, including the election of his elder brother, former Inter Milan midfielder McDonald Mariga, as the federation’s vice president in December.CONFIRMED: Gor Mahia announce historic venue and date for Mashemeji DerbyAnother factor possibly influencing Wanyama’s decision is the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.##NAJAVA_MECA_8945041##While Wanyama maintains the tournament is not driving his decision, he acknowledged its significance.“Obviously, it’s huge,” he said. “It will be the first time the country is hosting the Africa Cup of Nations. For the youth, it will be a great experience to witness their own national team competing in the biggest African competition. It will only give them the boost to work hard.”
