CHAN 2024: Shabana striker reveals reason for lack of Harambee Stars' game time
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Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 20.08.25. | 17:14
He is only one of three players yet to play a minute of the ongoing championships
Shabana FC dangerman Brian Michira has revealed why he has struggled to no success, to get playing time with the national team, Harambee Stars.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has proven his willingness and ability to rotate his squad in the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), but Michira has yet to get a chance.
The Shabana winger, who finished the 2025/26 season with 12 goals, is one of the only three players alongside goalkeeper Sebastian Wekesa and striker Austine Odongo, who are yet to have a taste of CHAN.
Speaking to Live Sports News, Michira outlined the main reason for his zero appearance in the biennial competition.
“I want to stay patient because I know my time will come. I received a late call-up, but I have now understood a few things from the coach, and when the time comes, I will show them why I’m here,” said Michira.
The 30-year-old was one of the omissions in the initial list of the CHAN squad name by McCarthy, causing an uproar online but was later called up to the team in the last minute after the withdrawal of Mohamed Bajaber.
Austine Odongo, Sebastian Wekesa, and Brian Michira remain the only Harambee Stars players yet to secure playing time at CHAN 2024. Their turn will certainly come if coach Benni McCarthy’s rotation policy is anything to go by.#CHAN2024 pic.twitter.com/4cQo7cRr1J
— Meshack Kisenge (@kisengemeshack1) August 19, 2025
Despite not playing, Michira had been a beneficiary of the millions the team has received, especially from the Government of Kenya, an initiative he says has been of great help.
“I feel great because, as a team, everyone is working hard, and that’s a great thing. This is something that has helped us to push beyond the limits, and most players always go out of the country to make such a huge amount of money,” he added.
With AFCON coming up in 2027, players will be fighting to impress coach McCarthy making Michira predict a highly competitive 2025/26 FKF Premier League season.
“I’m grateful to the President for this initiative. Now people believe that football actually pays. This is a signal we have sent out there; it means that next season, the league will be very tough and competitive,” he concluded.
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