- Dennis Oliech is against Joseph Okumu signing a contract with an Italian club because he is likely to struggle.
- According to Oliech, Okumu should make a move to the Premier League or the Spanish La Liga in the next transfer window.
- Okumu currently plays for French Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims.
Former Harambee Stars striker Dennis “The Menace” Oliech would not like to see star defender Joseph Okumu penning a deal with an Italian club.
Okumu, who currently plays for French Ligue 1 side Stade de Reims, is one of the best central defenders in Kenya.
According to the 39-year-old, several factors including culture may make it difficult for Okumu to thrive in Serie A.
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“His style of play may not be compatible with the demands of the Italian league. Again, his qualities and quick rise suggest that he is better suited for either the EPL or the La Liga.
Italian culture might also not favor him at all. I have seen several African players fail to adapt to Italian football, not because they are not good enough, but have struggled to blend in,” he was quoted by SPORTSBOOM.
Oliech, who is one of the leading goal scorers in the history of the Kenya national team, added that joining an Asian club would also be a dangerous decision for Okumu.
As stated by him, he has nothing against Asian leagues or footballers following their dreams but the bigger picture matters a lot.
The ex-Gor Mahia, Nantes and AJ Auxerre goal machine noted that although Okumu will get a lot of money by securing a move to Asia, he would not stay relevant for a long period of time.
Oliech names leagues that will suit Okumu
However, Oliech is confident that a transfer move to the English Premier League or the Spanish La Liga will help the 27-year-old to take his career to another level.
“He has to move to the English Premier League in the summer. He has what it takes to thrive in England or Spain. Okumu has punched above his weight in France, Belgium and Sweden and ought to test himself in a bigger competition, beginning next season.
The good thing is there have been interests before from English clubs and his agent should make it happen in July,” he explained.
Okumu signed for Stade de Reims in July 2023 after a successful spell with Belgium heavyweights KAA Gent.
At Gent, the towering defender made more than 90 appearances in all competitions including the domestic league and European assignments.
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