Bidco United defender details key reasons for Harambee Stars struggles
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 19.12.24. | 17:52
The former Ulinzi Stars defender also attributed the financial struggles in most Kenyan teams to the performance of clubs and in turn the national team
Bidco United defender Jacob Onyango has shared details of the key reasons behind Harambee Stars' struggles.
Harambee Stars have been performing dismally in recent times much to the disappointment of many football stakeholders. Kenya once again failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) despite being in what pundits termed as a relatively favourable group.
Cameroon and Zimbabwe qualified for the continental tourney as Group J's representatives with Kenya finishing third in the group.
In an interview with Tata Sport, Onyango shared his views on the problems bedevilling football in the country.
“Kenyan football has potential, but there are key issues that need addressing. For example, inconsistency with league sponsors is a major problem.
Sometimes a sponsor is only onboard for six months before pulling out, leaving the league unattractive and unstable,” said Onyango.
The former Ulinzi Stars defender also attributed the financial struggles in most Kenyan teams to the performance of clubs and in turn the national team.
“When salaries are delayed, players struggle to focus mentally. Imagine preparing for a match while worrying about what your family will eat. It affects your performance on the pitch,” he added.
Onyango called for more emphasis and investment in the Kenyan leagues which will have a ripple effect on the performance of the national team drawing examples from neighboring countries
“Tanzania’s starting XI for instance has about eight players from their local league. That’s because they’ve heavily invested in their domestic football, and now they’re reaping the rewards.
We have the talent and quality in Kenya. What we lack is proper investment and the right call-ups to the national team,” he remarked.
Further, the experienced defender also revealed that he is still dreaming of being capped by the national team.
“Every footballer dreams of representing their country, and I hope to have that chance one day.”
In the FKF Premier League, Onyango’s Bidco United is 16th in the league standings with 14 points and face Sofapaka in their next match set for Sunday 22 December.
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