Olunga missing as Aldrine Kibet is included in Harambee Stars latest squad
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 28.10.25. | 21:02
Kibet, who rose to prominence during the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Games in 2023, has enjoyed a meteoric rise in his fledgling career
Celta Vigo B and Kenya Under-20 attacking midfielder Aldrine Kibet has received his first senior national team call-up ahead of Harambee Stars’ international friendly matches in Antalya, Turkey, next month.
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Kibet, who rose to prominence during the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Games in 2023, has enjoyed a meteoric rise in his young career.
After leaving the country to join Nastic Academy in Spain, the former St. Anthony’s Kitale playmaker has gone on to represent Kenya in both the U18 and U20 categories, including at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
His rapid growth and consistent performances have now earned him recognition from Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy, who has handed the youngster his maiden senior team call-up.
A notable exclusion, however, is that of captain Michael Olunga, despite him being on the bench for Al Arabi in the Qatar Cup on Tuesday, 28 October.
Kenya is scheduled to play two international friendlies in Turkey during the FIFA window between Monday, 10 and Tuesday, 18 November 2025.
Harambee Stars will face Madagascar on Friday, 14 November, before taking on Comoros four days later on Monday, 17 or Tuesday, 18 November (date to be confirmed).
McCarthy has named a balanced squad blending youth and experience, with Kibet’s inclusion highlighting the coach’s intent to integrate emerging talent.
Also earning a place in the team is Zamalek SC defender Baron Ochieng, while Ovella Ochieng makes a notable return to the national fold after a long absence, bringing pace and attacking flair to the front line.
The two friendlies are expected to give McCarthy a chance to assess his squad as he builds towards upcoming competitive assignments.
Final Squad
Goalkeepers:
Byrne Omondi (Gor Mahia), Brian Bwire (Polokwane City), Brian Opondo (Tusker FC)
Defenders:
Vincent Harper (Walsall), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Alphonce Omija (Etoile du Sahel), Michael Kibwage (Gor Mahia), Ronney Onyango (Sogndal), Manzur Suleiman (Nairobi United), Baron Ochieng (Zamalek)
Midfielders:
Alpha Onyango (Gor Mahia), Duke Abuya (Yanga), Timothy Ouma (Lech Poznan), Marvin Nabwire (Kenya Police FC)
Attackers:
Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), William Lenkupae (VPS), Job Ochieng (Real Sociedad), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), Adam Wilson (New Saints), Aldrine Kibet (Celta Vigo B), Ovella Ochieng (Nairobi United), Jonah Ayunga (St. Mirren), Ryan Ogam (Wolfsberger), Lawrence Okoth (SJK Seinajoki)
