Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo has caught the eye of numerous top clubs following his stellar performance in the 2024 COSAFA Cup finals in South Africa. Scoring twice in three matches for Kenya’s U23 team, Odhiambo was named man of the match in the final group stage game against Zimbabwe, significantly boosting his profile on the international stage.
Impressive Display in South Africa
Odhiambo’s remarkable performance at the COSAFA Cup has not gone unnoticed. His standout displays have attracted interest from several top African and European clubs. Prior to his departure to South Africa, Odhiambo was already linked with a move to Belgian giants KAA Gent, known for their history of recruiting Kenyan players.
Growing Interest from Clubs
Following Kenya’s elimination from the tournament, more clubs have reached out to Odhiambo’s agent, expressing their interest in the creative midfielder. The live broadcasts of the matches on prominent platforms helped showcase his talent to a wider audience.
“It was a good tournament for me although I would have loved to see the team progress to the final and even win it. After our last game, more teams contacted me. It didn’t come as a surprise for me as the matches were live and I feel I expressed myself well,” Odhiambo told SportsBoom.
Potential Departure from Gor Mahia
With the growing interest in his services, Gor Mahia faces a challenging task in retaining Odhiambo. His omission from the squad that traveled to Tanzania for the CECAFA Kagame Cup 2024, despite being fully fit, suggests his imminent departure. Sources indicate that Odhiambo stayed behind to finalize a potential move to Europe.
While Odhiambo remained reserved about why he didn’t travel with the team, he expressed optimism about his future. “I do not want to comment on why I didn’t travel to Tanzania for the Kagame Cup. The management is better placed to divulge more,” he said.
Standout Season for Gor Mahia
In the 2023-2024 season, Odhiambo was a standout performer for Gor Mahia. He scored 12 goals and provided 13 assists, making him the midfielder with the highest goal contributions in the campaign. These statistics were instrumental in securing Gor Mahia’s 21st league title and earned him his senior national team debut last month.
Reflecting on the season, Odhiambo described it as the best he has ever had since breaking into the Kenyan top tier over four years ago. “It was the best season I have ever had. I enjoyed doing what I loved most, to be honest. I was a regular goal scorer and helped the team defend the league title with three matches to spare. I also played for the senior national team and registered an assist in the first game,” he said.
Aspirations for European Football
Odhiambo has long harbored dreams of playing in Europe. He previously missed a chance to join Swedish side Elfsborg in 2021, but his current form and impressive statistics have reignited hopes of securing a move to Europe.
Family Influence
While Odhiambo celebrated winning the league with Gor Mahia, his elder brother Tyson Otieno clinched the FKF Cup with Kenya Police. Odhiambo revealed that his sibling is his greatest source of motivation, and watching him score a penalty in the final against KCB and win the title was a proud moment.
“Winning titles with our respective clubs was a proud moment for our family. He has been a source of inspiration in my career. He supports me and I hope that one day he will win the league title. He has what it takes to play for the national team as well,” added Odhiambo, a two-time league winner with Gor Mahia.
Conclusion
Austin Odhiambo’s exceptional performance at the 2024 COSAFA Cup has opened doors to new opportunities, attracting interest from top clubs in Africa and Europe. As he contemplates his next move, Odhiambo’s journey reflects his dedication, talent, and the inspiration he draws from his family. With the potential for a transfer to a European club, the future looks bright for this promising midfielder.
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