The former Tottenham midfielder is currently a free agent after parting ways with Major League Soccer (MLS) side CF Montreal
Former Harambee Stars captain and renowned Kenyan footballer Victor Wanyama has outlined two crucial changes he believes the new Football Kenya Federation (FKF) leadership must implement to elevate the FKF Premier League. Speaking after the recent election of Hussein Mohamed as FKF President and McDonald Mariga as his deputy, Wanyama emphasized the need for professionalism and a significant increase in prize money to improve the quality and competitiveness of Kenyan football.
A Call for Professionalism in Kenyan Football
Wanyama, who boasts an illustrious career playing for clubs like Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League, stressed the importance of professionalism in football management. He believes adopting professional practices across all levels of the FKF Premier League will not only improve the league’s quality but also attract more sponsors, fans, and international attention.
“What they should do now is embrace professionalism and also make changes in our league, including increasing the prize money,” Wanyama said during an interview at the Wadau na Otuoma tournament. “The people who have taken over the federation are very professional and experienced, so we are expecting big things.”
With new leadership at the helm, Wanyama expressed optimism that the FKF can create a solid foundation for sustainable growth in Kenyan football. He noted that professionalism involves better governance, infrastructure development, player welfare, and transparent financial management.
Inadequate Prize Money: A Major Concern
A significant point of contention for Wanyama is the FKF Premier League’s current prize money of Ksh 5 million, which he described as insufficient given the high operational costs teams incur throughout the season. According to Wanyama, the prize money fails to reflect the effort and resources invested by clubs, leaving many teams struggling financially.
“The prize money in the FKF Premier League does not make sense,” Wanyama said. “Teams spend so much that it doesn’t match the prize. I have also heard that increasing the prize money is one of the first things they want to address.”
He highlighted that plans are already underway to secure additional funds through broadcasting deals. Increased prize money, Wanyama argued, would not only motivate players and clubs but also raise the league’s profile and competitiveness.
Broadcasting Deals: A Ray of Hope
Wanyama revealed that the new FKF leadership is actively working to boost league revenues through improved broadcasting rights agreements. He believes that securing lucrative deals will provide a much-needed financial injection into Kenyan football, allowing clubs to receive higher disbursements.
“There will also be increased money disbursed to teams from broadcasting deals,” he said, expressing hope that these developments will help alleviate financial burdens faced by teams and improve overall standards in the league.
Broadcasting rights are a vital revenue stream for football leagues globally, and for the FKF Premier League, this could mark the beginning of a new era of financial stability and growth.
Advice for Upcoming Players
As one of Kenya’s most accomplished footballers, Wanyama took the opportunity to offer words of encouragement to aspiring players. His journey, from Nairobi’s Makongeni Estate to playing on some of the world’s biggest stages, serves as a source of inspiration for many young talents in Kenya.
“Continue working hard and never give up, because there will be challenges,” Wanyama advised. “They have to be patient and believe in themselves.”
His message underscores the importance of resilience and self-belief in overcoming obstacles, whether on or off the pitch.
Wanyama’s Career and Current Status
Victor Wanyama, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers to emerge from Kenya, is currently a free agent after parting ways with Major League Soccer (MLS) side CF Montreal in November 2024. The 33-year-old midfielder has enjoyed a decorated career, playing for European clubs including Celtic, Southampton, and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as captaining Kenya’s national team.
During his tenure with CF Montreal, Wanyama established himself as a key figure in the team’s midfield, earning praise for his leadership and performances. His availability as a free agent has sparked speculation about his next move, with many fans eager to see him return to Kenya or join another high-profile league.
The New FKF Leadership and Expectations
The election of Hussein Mohamed as FKF President and McDonald Mariga as his deputy has ushered in a new wave of optimism for Kenyan football. With promises of reforms and increased investment, the new administration faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and delivering tangible results.
Wanyama’s call for professionalism and better financial incentives aligns with the broader expectations of stakeholders, including fans, players, and clubs. These reforms, if implemented effectively, could help the FKF Premier League realize its potential as one of Africa’s top football leagues.
The Road Ahead
Victor Wanyama’s recommendations highlight two critical areas that the FKF must address to transform the FKF Premier League into a more competitive and financially viable entity. By embracing professionalism and increasing prize money, the league can attract better talent, foster competitiveness, and create a sustainable model for growth.
With the new leadership signaling their intent to make meaningful changes, Kenyan football stands at a crossroads. The coming months will be crucial as the FKF begins to implement its vision, and the support of stakeholders like Wanyama will be instrumental in achieving lasting success.
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