Former Celtic midfielder Victor Wanyama has opened up about how Scotland’s warm culture and passionate football community played a key role in his surprising return to the country earlier this year.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More News In March, the 33-year-old Kenyan international joined Scottish Championship side Dunfermline Athletic in what many saw as an unexpected move.But for Wanyama, widely regarded as East Africa’s greatest footballer, the decision felt natural.##NAJAVA_MECA_8945041##“Scottish people and the community, they really look after visitors,” Wanyama told BBC Sport Africa.“They are good people, and they embrace their culture. Always loving, it doesn’t matter where you come from, they see you as one of their own. And they love their football.”Wanyama first made his name in Scotland over a decade ago, joining Celtic from Belgian side Beerschot in 2011.He became the first Kenyan to play in the Scottish Premiership and went on to win two league titles and a Scottish Cup.His stellar performances at Celtic Park paved the way for a high-profile move to Premier League side Southampton in 2013.Now, years later, it was a familiar figure, his former Celtic manager Neil Lennon, who played a key role in drawing him back.Lennon, 53, took charge of Dunfermline in March, stepping in to help the club avoid relegation.Victor Wanyama hints at return to Harambee Stars after four-year hiatusSpotting an opportunity, he reached out to Wanyama, then a free agent, to bolster the squad.“He made me get to the next level of football,” Wanyama said of Lennon.“He knows me very well, so it is easy when someone like Neil calls. He’s passionate and he’s a winner.”Although Wanyama’s on-pitch impact was ccurtailed as he was sent off on his debut against Ayr, his off-field presence made a significant difference.“We had a young team, and I had to play a role in that—speaking to the young lads, trying to help them in training,” he explained. “I think that itself has been a big role.”His arrival also created a buzz beyond the pitch.Mozzart Bet hands fresh look to Mount Elgon peace ambassadors Chepyuk FCThe club shop sold out of adult replica kits after a surge in demand for shirts bearing the name “Wanyama 44,” with orders streaming in from across the UK, Kenya, and around the world.“Victor came in the door and that was it,” said marketing manager Chris Addison. “As soon as his squad number was confirmed, we saw the orders come in from everywhere.”Outside East End Park, fans often line up with old Celtic memorabilia, eager for autographs and selfies.Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy reveals biggest problem ailing Manchester UnitedWanyama turns 34 next month but says he would be “happy” to return to Dunfermline next season—though that may depend on whether the club retains Lennon as manager.Negotiations are reportedly ongoing on both fronts.##NAJAVA_MECA_8945036##As his playing career winds down, Wanyama is already thinking about the next chapter in coaching.“That’s something I’m passionate about, and hopefully one day I can get into managing,” he said.
