Harambee Stars Set to Compete in CHAN Amid Key Player Departures

As the Harambee Stars gear up for the African Nations Championship (CHAN), they face a significant setback with the loss of attacking midfielder Mohammed Bajaber.

Bajaber has finalized a high-profile transfer to Tanzanian superclub Simba SC, completing a two-year deal that will see him join his new teammates ahead of their pre-season preparations in Egypt.

This unexpected departure comes just days before Kenya’s opening match in the CHAN tournament against the two-time champions, DR Congo, scheduled for August 3.

Bajaber, who was expected to play a crucial role in the national squad, had been a focal point of discussions leading up to the tournament. Head coach Benni McCarthy had been an ardent supporter of the player’s inclusion, even amidst concerns regarding his fitness. Bajaber’s individual training sessions had aimed at helping him regain the necessary match sharpness for the competition.

With Bajaber’s exit, McCarthy now has to recalibrate his game plan. This marks the third crucial player to leave the national team camp in recent weeks, following forwards Emmanuel Osoro and Moses Shummah, who both secured moves to clubs in the Zambian Premier League. These departures leave the technical bench with increased considerations just days before they embark on their CHAN campaign.

Sources close to the situation reveal that Simba SC overcame stiff competition from local rivals Azam FC to secure Bajaber’s signature, meeting the valuation set by Police FC through a lucrative, multi-million-shilling bid.

The transfer is part of Simba’s strategy to revamp their squad after a disappointing campaign during the 2024/25 season, where they witnessed their arch-rivals, Yanga SC, claim all major domestic trophies.

Bajaber’s prowess on the field significantly elevated his profile last season, playing an integral role in leading Police FC to their historic first-ever Premier League title. His reputation was further solidified when he scored a remarkable debut goal for the Harambee Stars in a World Cup qualifying match against The Gambia earlier this year.

In response to Bajaber’s unexpected departure, the national team management has moved quickly to bolster their squad. Attacking midfielder Brian Michira has received a late call-up and will step into Bajaber’s role, providing McCarthy with a fresh option as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the tournament.

As the team navigates this period of transition, all eyes will be on Harambee Stars as they look to make a strong impact in CHAN despite these recent upheavals in their roster.