- 8 players who deserved a Harambee Stars call-up for the international FIFA Series 2026 were overlooked by coach McCarthy.
- Kibet, Shumah, Waithira, Owili, Ochuoga, Aroko, Tyson, and Kayci have been in outstanding form recently.
- Kenya is set to face Estonia in their opening match on Friday, March 27, with the winner advancing to face either Grenada or hosts Rwanda in the next round of the mini-tournament.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy recently named his 23-man squad for the upcoming FIFA Series in Kigali, Rwanda where Kenya is set to face Estonia in their opening match on Friday, March 27.
The winner of that tie will proceed to face either Grenada or hosts Rwanda in the next round of the mini-tournament.
While the squad is already in Kigali and final preparations are underway, several notable players missed out due to injuries, travel complications and technical decisions.
ALSO READ: McCarthy hits back at critics questioning Harambee Stars selection ahead of FIFA Series 2026
With a number of regulars unavailable, the FIFA Series presents a perfect opportunity to test new talent and reward players who have been in excellent form for their clubs.
Based on current performances across different leagues, several Kenyan players have shown enough quality and consistency to warrant a place in the national team setup.
However, they were overlooked and subsequently missed out on the squad, as SportPesa Blog takes a closer look at these standout talents.
8 players who deserved a Harambee Stars call-up
Aldrine Kibet (Celta Vigo, Spain)
Young attacking midfielder Aldrine Kibet continues to make headlines in Spain with his impressive performances for Celta Vigo’s youth teams.
Since completing his move from Nastic Sports Academy, the former St. Antony’s Boys Kitale star has become a key figure for Celta Vigo U19 and has already earned promotion to Celta Vigo B.
His outstanding run in the Spanish U19 King’s Cup, where he scored crucial goals against SD Compostela, Atletico Madrid, and Athletic Club, showcased his attacking intelligence and composure in big matches.
With 13 goals and 11 assists in 21 appearances, Kibet is clearly on an upward trajectory and could have added creativity and energy to the Harambee Stars midfield.
Moses Shumah (Power Dynamos, Zambia)
Power Dynamos striker Moses Shumah has been in sensational form in the Zambian Premier League, scoring 15 goals and registering two Player of the Match awards.
After winning the golden boot in Kenya with Kakamega Homeboyz, Shumah has seamlessly adapted to life in Zambia and is now leading the line for the defending champions as they push for another league title.
With captain Michael Olunga unavailable for the FIFA Series, Shumah’s clinical finishing and physical presence would have offered a reliable attacking option.
Joe Waithira (Murang’a SEAL)
Murang’a SEAL captain Joe Waithira has been one of the standout performers in the SportPesa League this season.
Leading the golden boot race with 15 goals, the versatile forward has carried his team’s attacking burden having also provided 3 assists and consistently delivered in crucial matches.
His ability to play across the front line and his sharp movement inside the box make him a strong candidate for national team consideration.
Jimmy Owili (Mara Sugar)
Mara Sugar left-back Jimmy Owili has arguably been the most productive full-back in the league this season. With six assists, three goals, and 19 chances created, Owili has combined defensive solidity with attacking efficiency.
His consistent performances and multiple Team of the Week selections highlight his influence and his attacking runs from the left flank could have added width and creativity to Harambee Stars.
Paul Ochuoga (Gor Mahia)
Gor Mahia right-back Paul Ochuoga has enjoyed a breakthrough season, highlighted by winning the SportPesa League Player of the Month award in January.
With one goal and five assists, he has been instrumental in both defense and attack for the league leaders. His discipline at the back and ability to contribute going forward make him a strong contender for national team duty.
Humphrey Aroko (Kariobangi Sharks)
Teenage sensation Humphrey Aroko continues to rise after being crowned the SportPesa League Player of the Month for February.
The attacking midfielder has scored eight goals and provided three assists while also leading the FKF Cup scoring charts with six goals. His energy, creativity and eye for goal would have provided an exciting option in midfield for McCarthy’s side.
Tyson Otieno (AFC Leopards)
AFC Leopards midfielder Tyson Otieno is enjoying one of his best seasons after a difficult spell at Sportpesa League defending champions Kenya Police.
The playmaker has become the engine of Ingwe’s midfield, leading the league in chances created while contributing two goals and three assists. His vision and ability to control tempo could have strengthened Harambee Stars’ midfield options.
Kayci Odhiambo (AFC Leopards)
Center-back Kaycie Odhiambo completes the list after a solid defensive campaign with AFC Leopards. With three goals and a key role in a defense that has recorded 10 clean sheets and conceded among the fewest goals in the league, Kaycie has proven to be a dependable leader at the back.
His presence and organization in defense would have added depth to the national team’s backline.
While Benni McCarthy’s squad selection reflects his tactical plans for the FIFA Series, the performances of these players across different leagues show that Kenya has a growing pool of talent ready to step up.
The tournament in Kigali offers Harambee Stars a chance to rebuild and test new combinations, and players like Kibet, Shumah, Waithira, Owili, Ochuoga, Aroko, Tyson and Kaycie remain strong contenders for future national team call-ups if they maintain their current form.