Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has been forced into a tactical reshuffle of Kenya’s squad for the 2024 CHAN after the high-profile departures of attacking duo Moses Shumah and Emmanuel Osoro. The sudden exits have compelled McCarthy to issue fresh call-ups as Kenya intensifies preparations for the continental tournament.
Moses Shumah sealed a lucrative two-year deal with Power Dynamos, following his impressive tally of 17 league goals. He was recently crowned Golden Boot winner of the 2024/25 FKF Premier League with Kakamega Homeboyz. The Zambian champions cited the striker’s goal-scoring prowess as critical to their ambitions on both domestic and continental fronts.
Barely a week later, FC Talanta’s Emmanuel Osoro joined his compatriot at Power Dynamos on a three-year contract. He netted 16 goals and finished just behind Shumah. Osoro’s switch completes a formidable Kenyan pairing in Zambia’s attack. Both players will make their debut in the CAF Champions League.
Why are Shumah and Osoro Ineligible for CHAN?
Both Shumah and Osoro’s new contracts render them ineligible for this year’s CHAN. The tournament’s strict regulations restrict participation to players registered with clubs in their home country’s domestic league.
Once a player transfers to a foreign league, as in the case of the Zambian Super League, they are automatically disqualified from representing their nation at CHAN. This exodus deals a significant blow to McCarthy’s plans. McCarthy saw both as pivotal attacking threats for Kenya’s campaign.
McCarthy Responds with New Call-Ups
In response, coach McCarthy has called up Austin Odongo and experienced goalkeeper Byrne Omondi. Complementing the recent addition of Marvin Nabwire to the squad. Omondi, unattached after departing Bandari FC, and Nabwire, from Kenya Police FC, bring a mix of experience and versatility. The reshuffle comes after McCarthy’s earlier decision to drop several players following an underwhelming friendly performance.
Kenya stands as one of the hosts for CHAN 2024, sharing the spotlight with Uganda and Tanzania. The Harambee Stars will play all of their group matches at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, providing a critical home advantage. Drawn into a challenging Group A alongside Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, and Zambia, Kenya faces a demanding path. Still, it retains optimism, given the blend of home support, seasoned domestic talent, and McCarthy’s emphasis on structure and discipline.