Football Kenya Federation reacts to Wanyama's retirement

Victor Wanyama

Wednesday Sep 29, 2021. 12:00

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has thanked CF Montréal star Victor Wanyama after the central midfielder decided to quit international football on Monday.

The 30-year-old player announced his retirement following Kenya head coach Jacob Mulee’s decision to omit him from the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Uganda and Rwanda earlier this month.

Furthermore, Mulee had stripped Wanyama of the armband and handed it to lead striker Michael Olunga, and he has decided to hang up his boots having totalled 64 caps, and seven goals in a 15-year-long career representing Kenya.

“Football Kenya Federation wishes to thank former Harambee Stars Captain, Victor Wanyama, for his immense contribution, dedication, and service to the national football team, Harambee Stars,” an FKF statement read.

“Victor will forever occupy a special place in the history of Kenyan football and the national team. Hos retirement from international football is the finish line of perhaps the most influential national team career of recent times.’

“Most importantly, he will forever remain one of Kenya’s greatest international players, who offered so much to Kenya over the last 15 years, including captaining the team during the 2019 AFCON tournament.”

“He is a rare gem, a special talent that this administration is most privileged and honored to have worked so closely with. Whereas Victor remained integral to the Federation’s plans for the national team, Harambee Stars, FKF fully respects his decision to exit international football and wishes him all the best in his club career.”

“The Federation remains cognizant of Victor’s contribution to Kenyan football and believes that country will continue to benefit from his leadership and experience in the future. The door will always be open for Victor to contribute to the development of the game and the national team. Asante Sana Capi.”