Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has unveiled his 28-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. As Kenya gears up for crucial matches against Zimbabwe and Namibia, the squad selection has drawn significant attention, particularly due to the return of some key players and the notable absence of others. This article delves into the squad’s composition, highlighting the players who made a comeback and those who were left out, and what these choices mean for Kenya’s chances in the qualifiers.
Return of Key Players: Bolstering Firat’s Squad
Firat’s provisional squad includes the return of several key players who were absent during the June international window. Among them are Joseph Okumu, a formidable center-back who plies his trade at Stade Reims, and Eric Ouma, a versatile defender known for his pace and defensive acumen. These two, along with Collins Sichenje and Jonah Ayunga, bring much-needed experience and stability to the team, especially in the defensive and attacking fronts.
Okumu’s return is particularly noteworthy. His leadership and solid performances in the French Ligue 1 have earned him a reputation as one of Kenya’s top defenders. His presence is expected to strengthen the backline, offering Firat more tactical flexibility against tough opponents like Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Eric Ouma, often referred to as ‘Marcelo’ by fans due to his attacking prowess as a left-back, is another significant inclusion. His ability to transition quickly from defense to attack makes him a crucial asset in Firat’s tactical setup.
Collins Sichenje, who has been gaining experience in European football, and Jonah Ayunga, an exciting forward who has been impressive in Scotland, also add depth to the squad. Their return could prove vital as Kenya seeks to secure a spot in the 2025 AFCON.
Notable Omissions: Availability and Documentation Woes
While the return of key players is a positive development, the absence of certain players has raised eyebrows. Among the most surprising omissions is Daniel Anyembe, a right-back who has made eight appearances for the national team. Anyembe, who was expected to be a key figure in the September qualifiers, was left out due to availability issues. This decision is particularly puzzling given his solid performances in the June qualifiers, where he even filled in as a center-back against Ivory Coast.
Another player who missed out is Tobias Knost, a 24-year-old defender who was expected to make his debut for Kenya during the June window. Knost’s absence is reportedly due to ongoing documentation problems, which have prevented him from fully integrating into the team. His exclusion leaves questions about the potential impact he could have had, especially given his reputation as a reliable and versatile defender in Germany’s third tier.
Bruce Kamau, an Australian-based forward, also finds himself on the sidelines. After years of waiting for a call-up, Kamau finally made it to the provisional squad in June, only to be dropped again without clear explanation. His exclusion is a setback for a player who has shown promise and was eager to represent Kenya on the international stage.
Ayub Timbe, once a stalwart for the national team, is another notable absentee. Timbe’s omission is attributed to his lack of playing time, a consequence of being without a club for an extended period. However, it is worth noting that Timbe recently signed a two-year deal with Turkish second-tier side Ankaraspor Kulubu, raising questions about whether his form will improve in time for future call-ups.
Zak Vyner, a Bristol City defender who was part of the squad during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, also misses out due to unresolved documentation issues. Vyner’s situation highlights the ongoing challenges that Firat faces in assembling a full-strength squad.
Impact on Team Dynamics: Balancing Experience and New Talent
The squad selected by Firat reflects a careful balance between experienced players and emerging talent. The return of seasoned players like Okumu and Ouma is expected to bring stability to the team, while the inclusion of younger players like Sichenje and Ayunga introduces fresh energy and dynamism.
However, the absence of players like Anyembe and Timbe could affect the team’s depth, particularly in positions where Kenya has historically struggled. Firat’s decision to omit these players may be driven by current form and availability, but it also underscores the importance of squad depth in international competitions.
Looking Ahead: Preparations for AFCON Qualifiers
As Harambee Stars head into camp to prepare for the AFCON qualifiers, Firat’s squad selection will undoubtedly be scrutinized. The coach has a strong pool of talent to work with, but the omissions of key players will be a talking point as Kenya prepares for two pivotal matches in September.
Firat’s tactical approach and player management will be crucial in these games. With the return of key defenders and the potential for a solid defensive setup, Kenya’s chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON look promising. However, the team will need to overcome the challenges posed by the absence of certain players and ensure that the selected squad is fully prepared to compete at the highest level
The Road to AFCON 2025
The journey to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is well underway, and Engin Firat’s squad selection is a significant step in that direction. While the return of key players is a positive development, the omissions raise important questions about squad depth and player availability. As Kenya gears up for the September qualifiers, the focus will be on how Firat’s chosen squad performs and whether the decisions made today will lead to success in the road ahead.
