From homelessness to metroic rise in Spain:The inspiring rise of Job Ng’uono Ochieng

Once left stranded and homeless in Spain, Kenyan winger Job Ng’uono Ochieng is now carving out his name in European football.

The 22-year-old announced himself in spectacular style last Sunday, producing a superb chipped finish that secured Real Sociedad B a narrow 1-0 win over Zaragoza in La Liga 2.

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It was more than just a goal; it was a symbol of how far he had come!

Ochieng, born on January 17, 2003, grew up in Nairobi, where he first showed promise playing for local side Express FC at shanty Nairobi pitches.

By age 12, he was already drawing attention for his fearless dribbling and attacking instincts.

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Inspired by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Eden Hazard, and Victor Wanyama, he dreamed of one day joining the ranks of professionals, though the odds seemed stacked against him.

In 2020, his journey took a bold turn when community fundraising efforts helped him travel to Gran Canaria, Spain, to join a football academy.

With limited resources, just about €1,200 per month scraped together by supporters, every day was a battle to keep the dream alive.

The real test came when his agency abandoned him over unpaid fees, leaving him without shelter or financial support. For a period, Ochieng was homeless, and his football future hung by a thread.

That turning point arrived when Maspalomas CF stepped in. Coaches Carlos Gaumet, Orlando Galindo, and Javi Martel not only gave him a roof over his head but also placed him in an environment where he could continue developing his game.

Ochieng seized the chance, impressing with his work rate, two-footed dribbling, and creativity. He earned a spot in Maspalomas’ senior side and played a role in their promotion chase, which caught the eye of Spanish scouts.

In 2022, he was offered a trial with Real Sociedad. Despite carrying a knee injury, he convinced the coaching staff to hand him a contract with Real Sociedad C, debuting in February 2023 against Alavés B.

Within a year, he was promoted to Real Sociedad B, where he made 39 appearances and scored his first goal.

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His rise continued when he joined SD Huesca on loan for the 2024/25 Segunda División season, gaining valuable minutes at a higher level. Coaches there praised him as “a modern winger, explosive and eager to improve.”

Now back at Real Sociedad B for the 2025/26 season after a splendid loan spell, Ochieng is establishing himself as a reliable wide man, capable of unlocking defenses with pace and skill.

His performances in Spain have also put him on the radar of the Kenya national team, with many observers convinced that a Harambee Stars call-up is only a matter of time.

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