Goalkeeper Coach Arnold Origi has expressed his joy at returning to Harambee Stars, this time in a new role that allows him to shape the future of Kenyan football.As the team prepares for the Mapinduzi Cup in January, Origi shared insights on his transition to coaching, his relationship with Interim Head Coach Francis Kimanzi, and his vision for the players in camp.“Being back with the national team is a great feeling – it’s always an honour,” Origi said. “I’ve had the privilege of representing Harambee Stars as a player, and now I’m here as a goalkeeper trainer. It’s a different role, but one I’ve grown to love.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8598367##Origi expressed excitement about working alongside coach Kimanzi, with whom he shares a rich history.“Coach Francis Kimanzi is someone I respect a lot. I worked with him as a player at Mathare United and later with Harambee Stars. I’ve always admired his approach to the game. He’s demanding, but that’s what this team needs to progress. It feels great to work with him again in a different capacity.”Origi is currently mentoring Farouk Shikalo (KCB FC), Byrne Omondi (Bandari FC), Sebastian Wekesa (Kariobangi Sharks), and Morgan Ambuka (Murang’a Seal).“These keepers are good, and I see them as more than just players – they’re like younger brothers and friends to me. They’ve got potential, but there’s always room for improvement, and that’s my job here.”A look into Kenya U17 at FIFA World Cup and women’s national team 2024 performanceAs Harambee Stars gear up for the Mapinduzi Cup, Origi emphasized the importance of focusing on the bigger picture.“Winning the Mapinduzi Cup would be fantastic, but the bigger picture is building a solid team for CHAN. Playing on home soil brings extra pressure, and we have to get it right. The country loves football and is hungry for success. We saw it with the U17 girls qualifying for the World Cup – it shows what’s possible with the right support. I hope Kenyans will keep supporting us as we work towards building something special.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8598372##Origi further revealed that his move into coaching was not initially part of his plan.“My role model was Gianluigi Buffon, who played well into his 40s, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. But after my last contract at FC Hødd in Norway, finding a good offer became really tough. Luckily, I had completed my UEFA coaching badges for goalkeepers, and when I got the chance to train keepers at Östersund, I realised it was something I truly enjoyed. That’s where my coaching journey started.”Massive boost for Nyayo Stadium ahead of CAF deadlineOrigi’s playing career is as remarkable as his coaching ambitions.He began at Mathare United before moving abroad and featured for several teams among them; Moss FK, Lillestrøm SK, Sandnes Ulf in Norway, and HIFK in Finland. His final stint was with FC Hødd in Norway.He made his Harambee Stars debut in 2005 during the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup and quickly became a mainstay in the squad.##NAJAVA_MECA_8598387##Origi’s most memorable moment came in 2015, when he delivered heroic saves in Kenya’s 1-0 victory over Cape Verde during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
