Football
Exclusive: What’s Next for Victor Wanyama? Ex-Harambee Stars Captain Opens Up On Retirement Claims
Victor Wanyama, an iconic figure in Kenyan football, shares insights on his future plans in an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com. With a passion for the game and a desire to give back to his community, Wanyama's next chapter remains uncertain but full of possibilities.
Victor Wanyama, a name synonymous with Kenyan football, has carved out a remarkable career in Europe, representing top clubs like Celtic, Southampton, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Having been a pivotal part of the Kenyan national team, Harambee Stars, Wanyama’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. However, as he navigates the latter part of his career, there are many questions about what’s next for the midfielder, both on and off the pitch.
In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com, Wanyama opens up about his future plans, his current form, and his thoughts on Kenyan football.
The 33-year-old former captain of the Harambee Stars spoke candidly about his career trajectory, his decision to leave MLS side Montreal Impact, and his passion for continuing to contribute to the sport that shaped his life.
Wanyama's Words: "I’m Not Done Yet"
"Football has been my life, and I’m far from done," Wanyama told SportsBoom.com. "It’s been an incredible journey, from playing in Kenya to reaching the biggest leagues in Europe and North America. But I feel I still have a lot to offer. I’ve always loved the game, and I believe I can continue playing at a high level, whether in Africa or elsewhere."
When asked about the possibility of returning to play in the Kenyan Premier League (KPL), Wanyama was non-committal, but he did not dismiss the idea either. "I’m always open to new opportunities. The Kenyan league is growing, and I think there’s a lot of potential. But for now, my focus is on staying fit and exploring my options," offered Wanyama.
The idea of returning to his roots in Kenya would be a storybook ending for Wanyama, but he is cautious about making any quick decisions. "I’ve seen how much Kenyan football has improved over the years, but I want to be in the right place at the right time. If an opportunity presents itself that feels right, I’ll consider it."
Beyond Football: Wanyama’s Legacy and Community Impact
While he remains focused on his footballing career, Wanyama is also passionate about giving back to his community and shaping the next generation of footballers in Kenya. He has long been a supporter of various charitable initiatives, and his influence extends beyond the pitch.
"I have always wanted to use my position to help others," added Wanyama. "Football has opened doors for me, and I feel a responsibility to give back. I’ve been involved in community projects, youth development, and supporting local talents. My aim is to see more Kenyan players succeed on the global stage."
Wanyama also touched on his aspirations to work with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and help elevate the standard of Kenyan football. "I think there’s a lot of untapped talent in Kenya. The infrastructure may not always be ideal, but the passion is there.
"I would love to be more involved in the development of football at all levels, and if that means working with the federation or clubs, I’m ready to contribute."
Reflections on Harambee Stars and Kenyan Football
As the former captain of Harambee Stars, Wanyama expressed his heartfelt pride in representing his country. Despite some challenging years for the national team, he remains hopeful for the future of Kenyan football.
"We’ve had our ups and downs, but I believe in the potential of this team. We have talented players, and with the right support, we can achieve great things. The future is bright if we continue working together and invest in the right areas."
When asked about the challenges that Kenyan football faces, Wanyama was candid in his assessment. "The biggest issue has always been the lack of proper structures, facilities, and investment in grassroots football. If we can fix these things, the future of Kenyan football can be very bright."
Wanyama’s Next Chapter
While Wanyama may be contemplating what’s next for his playing career, one thing is clear—he is not ready to fade into the background just yet.
Whether it’s returning to play in Kenya, continuing in MLS, or even exploring new frontiers, the midfielder remains driven by his love for the game and his desire to contribute to the footballing world in a meaningful way.
For the time being, Wanyama’s journey continues, and as he puts it, "Football is my life, and as long as I’m fit and able, I will keep going." One thing’s for certain: wherever Wanyama goes next, his legacy as one of Kenya’s greatest ever footballers is already cemented.
Bonface is a sports enthusiasm with a sharp understanding of various sports categories. He is a dedicated Kenyan sports journalist with 10 years of working experience, having worked with Royal Media Services, Standard Media, and media max Limited mainstream media houses as a reporter, sports anchor, commentator and editor.