Mariga hits back at critics over Wanyama’s National team return

The inclusion of Victor Wanyama in Harambee Stars’ provisional squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Chad has stirred debate among fans but Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President McDonald Mariga has come to his brother’s defence.

Wanyama was named in coach Benni McCarthy’s 25-man squad for the double-header in Morocco, marking a surprise return to national duty. The 32-year-old midfielder officially retired from international football in 2021 and last featured for the team in a 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Comoros.

While Wanyama has since withdrawn from the squad citing “personal commitments,” his initial call-up sparked criticism from a section of fans and media who questioned the merit of recalling a veteran player.

But Mariga insists age should not be a factor if a player is performing well.

“It is the coach’s decision to call up the players he feels will help make his team better,” said Mariga. “Even when a player is 40 years old and is still able to play, then he deserves a chance.”

“Disrespect or backlash from fans is a normal thing in football,” he added. “But at the end of the day, if a player is good, then there’s no reason why he shouldn’t be in the team.”

Wanyama currently plays for Scottish second-tier side Dunfermline Athletic and has maintained consistent playing time at club level. His return to the provisional squad reignited longstanding debates about age, form, and legacy in Kenyan football - something Mariga says must change.

“In Kenya, we have a tendency of pushing players to retire. Once a player gets to 32 years, fans start calling for him to get out of the game,” he said. “But in Europe, we see players playing up to 40 years. Zanetti (former Inter Milan midfielder) retired at 41.”

Mariga urged fans to shift their mindset and trust coaches to select players based on merit rather than birthdate.

“Let us learn to give chances to players to shine regardless of their ages,” he said. “If a player is maybe 16 years and is good, the coach can decide to use him… same thing when he is 40 and still playing well.”

Wanyama’s withdrawal may have ended the debate for now, but Mariga’s message is clear: a player's age should not outweigh their ability.

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