Kenyan footballer Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma, a Harambee Stars defender, has caught the attention of Kazakhstan’s FK Astana, with reports of a €1.7 million (Ksh227 million) bid submitted for his transfer. However, his Polish club Rakow Czestochowa has rejected the offer, holding out for a higher price tag of €2.5 million (Ksh334 million).
The potential transfer reflects the meteoric rise of the left-back, who has become a highly-rated talent in European football. Yet Ouma’s journey to stardom is a story of perseverance, grit, and the refusal to let his humble beginnings in the Kibera slums define his future.
Playing Barefoot in Kibera
Ouma’s journey began in Kibera, Nairobi, where poverty was part of everyday life. He honed his skills on dusty pitches, often playing barefoot for his local team, Future FC. With limited resources, including tattered boots and improvised equipment, Ouma relied on raw passion and determination to chase his dream.
“I stayed in Kibera for over 19 years, and the hustle was real,” Ouma shared in a 2020 interview. “We lacked basic materials and facilities, but we made do with what we had. Even using stones as cones couldn’t stop us because we were driven by our love for football.”
It was through football that Ouma received a life-changing scholarship to Kakamega School, a prestigious institution known for nurturing young talent.
Rising Through Kakamega School
In 2011, Ouma joined Kakamega School on the recommendation of former Kenyan international Nicholas Muyoti. He quickly made a name for himself, becoming a key player in the school’s football team. His performances were instrumental in Kakamega’s victory at the national school games in 2014, paving the way for the team’s participation in the FKF Division One league.
Professional Career: From Gor Mahia to Europe
Ouma’s talent earned him a spot at Kenyan Premier League giants Gor Mahia in 2016. After just one season, he moved to Europe, joining Kolkheti Poti in Georgia.
However, his time in Georgia was far from smooth. Ouma faced cultural challenges and persistent injuries, which led him to contemplate quitting football altogether. “I was so frustrated by recurring injuries that I almost gave up. But I reminded myself of where I came from and the people who looked up to me,” Ouma said.
After overcoming these hurdles, Ouma moved to KS Kastrioti in Albania in 2018 and later to Swedish club Vasalund. It was during his stint in Sweden that his career flourished, catching the eye of top-tier clubs. In 2020, he joined AIK, one of Sweden’s most successful teams, where he made 104 appearances, scored four goals, and provided 15 assists over four years.
Big Move to Rakow Czestochowa
In January 2024, Ouma transferred to Rakow Czestochowa for a reported €700,000 (Ksh94 million). Since then, he has continued to impress, contributing one goal and three assists in 18 appearances this season. His strong performances have now attracted FK Astana’s interest, although Rakow is unwilling to let him go without a significant offer.
Inspiration and Legacy
Nicknamed “Marcelo” for his playing style reminiscent of the Brazilian legend, Ouma’s journey is an inspiring tale of triumph against all odds. From playing barefoot in Kibera to becoming a sought-after defender in European football, Ouma has shown what resilience and hard work can achieve.
As the transfer saga unfolds, whether FK Astana will return with an improved bid remains to be seen. Regardless, Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma’s story continues to inspire, proving that talent and determination can indeed defy even the most challenging circumstances.
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