Kenyan football fans have reacted strongly to Victor Wanyama’s recent revelation that he is considering coming out of international retirement, nearly four years after stepping away from the national team.Wanyama, who last featured for Harambee Stars in 2020, officially announced his retirement in September 2021 at the age of 30.The former national team captain had enjoyed a decorated international career spanning over a decade, having made his debut at just 15 years old in 2007.##NAJAVA_MECA_8945544##However, his exit came amid reports of discontent, following continued exclusion from the squad during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers and an alleged fallout with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).Now at 33, the former Tottenham Hotspur and Celtic midfielder appears open to a return.In an interview with BBC Africa, Wanyama revealed he has been in contact 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. He’s experienced, and he’s the kind of leader Kenya needs.”Kenyan footballers face growing mental health challenges, experts warnWanyama added that recent changes within FKF, including the appointment of his brother, McDonald Mariga, as vice president, have restored his confidence in the federation’s direction.“Things have changed,” he noted. “The way the federation manages players and the national team—so that has already convinced me.”He also acknowledged the importance of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania, though he insisted it is not the driving force behind his reconsideration. “It’s huge,” he admitted. “It will be a great experience for the youth to see their national team on such a big stage.”MPs finger government over Ksh3.9 billion 2027 AFCON feesDespite the prestige and experience Wanyama brings, his potential return has sparked mixed reactions from fans, with social media buzzing since the interview surfaced online on Friday.A majority of fans have voiced concern that his return could stall the progress of younger players.“No, let him retire; give a chance to those young boys we saw playing in the U20 tournament to grow,” Erick Nyakundi said.Others echoed the sentiment, calling for a generational transition. “The kids who played in the Under-20 AFCON recently should be the key focus of the Harambee Stars coach, not Wanyama. His glory days are behind him,” stated Joseph Masta.How much it costs to run for AFC Leopards elective postsKipruto Levi added, “Dude should just retire and give the kids their chances to shine. It’s always good to know when to exit the dancing stage.”Amos Ndegwa was blunt in his take: “Others are bringing in Yamal, and he wants to come back — how shall we ever advance, football-wise?”However, not all reactions were negative. Some believe Wanyama’s presence—if not as a player, then in a technical or leadership role—could still benefit the team.“He may not be of much help as a player, maybe in management,” suggested Peter Ndegwa.“Maybe in the technical bench… but allow the young lads to take this country to the next level,” added Gyan Wahome. “With all due respect, Victor.”TACTICAL ANALYSIS: Gor Mahia’s game plan that downed Murang’a SealYet others believe Wanyama still has something to offer on the pitch.“Why not? At 33, he is still young. We need experience at this point in time,” said Mwaura Edward.Man Obiri weighed in with a comparison: “Croatia, a bigger football nation than Kenya, still have Modrić in their team. Yet people here are claiming we don’t need Wanyama, even just as a motivational speaker? Come on!”Mike Nello, however, questioned whether Wanyama still has the physical edge: “Really… does he still play? Will he cope with today’s speedy young footballers?”As the debate rages on, the final decision rests with Wanyama. “I’m thinking about it, and very soon I’ll be making an announcement,” he said, leaving fans eagerly waiting.Sports CS responds to reports of Kenya being unprepared to host CHAN
