- Nairobi United send clear message to new signing Kevin Wangaya who joined the team as a free agent.
- The Kenya U20 assistant captain joined having been without a club since returning from Albania.
- The midfielder has represented Kenya at Under 15, Under 17, Under 18 and Under 20 levels.
Nairobi United head coach Godfrey “Solo” Oduor has sent a firm message to the club’s latest recruit, Kenya U20 assistant captain Kevin Wangaya, making it clear that reputation alone will not guarantee him a place in the starting lineup.
Wangaya was Nairobi United’s final acquisition in a busy mid-season transfer window that saw the club significantly reinforce its squad.
Naibois brought in experienced midfielder Roy Okal from Sofapaka, Ugandan trio Titus Ssematimba, Charles Waibi and Mustapha Kizza from NEC FC, former Gor Mahia striker Benson Omala and Rwandan midfielder Muhadjiri Hakizimana.
The signings underline the club’s ambition as they push for consistency and competitiveness in the second half of the season.
Despite Wangaya’s impressive résumé at youth international level, Oduor has been quick to stress that competition within the squad is intense, especially in midfield.
Nairobi United send clear message to new signing Kevin Wangaya
Nairobi United already boasts a deep pool of players in Wangaya’s preferred role, including Okal, Enock Machaka, Brian Mzee, Hakizimana, Kepha Aswani and Lesley Otieno among others.
“Kevin Wangaya is a very promising and talented player,” Oduor said.
“He is here with us now, and he must be ready to compete. He has to fight for his place. He is not coming into a team with a guaranteed position waiting for him, so he must prove himself and earn it.”
The coach’s remarks reflect a culture of meritocracy that Nairobi United are keen to maintain as they chase their objectives. While Wangaya arrives with high expectations, the technical bench believes competition is essential for raising standards within the squad.
The highly rated midfielder had been without a club after leaving Albanian side FK Apolonia Fier, a situation that sparked concern among Kenyan football fans who view him as one of the country’s brightest midfield prospects.
His return to local football, however, now presents an opportunity to reignite his career in a competitive environment.
Speaking during his unveiling, Wangaya expressed optimism about the move and confidence in Nairobi United’s direction.
“Nairobi United has a very clear project and a winning mentality that aligns with my personal goals,” he said. “I am ready to give my best for the badge, help the team achieve its objectives, and give the fans something to be proud of.”
Wangaya’s football journey began at Ligi Ndogo SC before he joined SportPesa side Kariobangi Sharks in 2022. In January 2024, he moved to Albanian second-tier club Apolonia Fier for a short stint before returning home to Ligi Ndogo.
On the international stage, the midfielder has represented Kenya at Under-15, Under-17, Under-18 and Under-20 levels.
He was part of the Junior Stars side that finished runners-up at the CECAFA U18 Boys Championship behind Uganda and later made history with the Kenya U20 team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Wangaya scored against Nigeria, earned the Man of the Match award, and was named in the tournament’s group-stage Best XI.
Now at Nairobi United, the challenge is clear – translate promise into consistent performances and earn his place the hard way.