Kenya U20 captain Amos Wanjala debuts for Valencia senior team
_(1).jpg)
Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 19.07.26. | 09:24
The highly rated center back, who was recently promoted to train with Valencia's first team, featured in the club's final preseason training match at the Royalverd Training Centre in Girona, Spain
Kenya Under-20 captain Amos Wanjala took another major step in his rapidly rising career after making his senior debut for Spanish side Valencia in a preseason friendly against Angolan champions Petro de Luanda.
Download our Mozzart Sport app for more news
The highly rated center back, who was recently promoted to train with Valencia's first team, featured in the club's final preseason training match at the Royalverd Training Centre in Girona, Spain.
Valencia fell 3-1 to Petro de Luanda, with Umar Sadiq scoring for the La Liga side while Tiago Reis, Vanilson, and Hélder Costa found the net for the Angolan champions.
Wanjala was among the academy players selected by the coaching staff to feature alongside several first-team stars in the training match.
The Kenyan youth international only joined Valencia in January 2026 from Spanish lower division side Athletic Club Torrellano but has enjoyed a remarkable rise through the ranks.
His inclusion in the senior squad came after defender Lucas Núñez suffered an injury, opening the door for the youngster to join Rubén Baraja's first team for their preseason camp in Girona.
Following his promotion, Wanjala admitted the opportunity came as a surprise and expressed gratitude for the chance to train and play alongside the senior squad.
"It's my first preseason with the first team. It is a great opportunity for me, and I thank God for how far He has brought me," said the former St. Anthony's Kitale skipper.
"I'm very happy to be here, and I also want to thank the first team staff. The first few days have been good. We are building a good relationship with the players and the coaching staff, and I hope to continue learning during the remaining days."
The defender has been one of Kenya's brightest young prospects in recent years, captaining the Rising Stars and earning recognition for his commanding displays at the heart of the defense.
Valencia will now return to the Ciudad Deportiva to continue preparations for the 2026/27 LaLiga season, with friendly matches against CD Eldense and CD Castellón scheduled over the coming days.