Reactions as Victor Wanyama comes out of retirement for Harambee Stars

• Victor Wanyama called time on his international career with Harambee Stars back in October 2021
• His retirement came after he had earned 52 caps with the national team during his 15-year career with Stars
• However, the 'Lion of Muthurwa' as the midfielder is fondly known, is due to make a comeback with the Kenyan national team
• Wanyama, who previously turned out for Tottenham Hotspur, is currently plying his trade in the MLS with Montreal Impact

Kenyans have shared mixed feelings about Victor Wanyama's decision to come out of retirement for Harambee Stars.

Wanyama announced his retirement from international football back in October 2021 after earning 52 caps with the national team during his 15-year-long career representing Kenya.

The former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder admitted at the time the decision to call time on his career with Harambee Stars was a difficult one to make.

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"The time has come to hand over the team to the next generation so that they too can make their mark and help our country reach even greater heights," Africa News quoted him saying at the time.

Wanyama set for Harambee Stars comeback

But barely a year after the announcement, Wanyama has decided to come out of retirement for Harambee Stars.

His imminent return was confirmed on Thursday, December 8, by Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.

"Am delighted Victor Wanyama has agreed to return fully to Harambee Stars, rescinding his earlier decision to exit the team," Namwamba revealed via The Star.

The announcement sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans, with some welcoming Wanyama's return.

However, there are those who criticised the move, claiming it is time for the young players to be afforded a chance to flourish.

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Below are some of the reactions:

On wondered:

"It's high the ministry of sports put structure in place to tap talents, with doubt still, Wanyama cant give more than 2 years prime, then what happens next to our national team if we dont tap new talents?"

A second observed:

"To do what exactly..........you mean to tell me what he didn't do in his 20s now he can in his 40s."

Another argued:

"Who selects the national football team? This is why Kenya will never go to the world cup."

A fourth posted:

"He should give room to younger players to lead the country to the next level."