The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) chairman Irungu Nyakera has expressed his desire to see former Harambee Stars midfielder McDonald Mariga take over the leadership of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
With FKF elections on the horizon, the chairman met with Mariga on Friday and called for fresh leadership in Kenyan football.
Nyakera on Mariga
He emphasized the importance of having someone who truly understands the game, both locally and internationally, to lead the federation, and he believes Mariga is the perfect candidate.
“I would love to see Mariga overseeing our football. With FKF elections coming up, let’s rally behind such experienced talent,” the chairman said.
I would love to see @MarigaOfficial overseeing our football. FKF elections are coming up, let’s rally behind such experienced talent. pic.twitter.com/9wsBuDLOlL
— Irungu Nyakera, CBS (@wnyakera) October 4, 2024
This statement comes amidst reports linking Mariga to both the Hussein Mohamed camp and the possibility of him running independently in the upcoming FKF elections.
His name is gaining traction as a potential leader who could bring much-needed reforms to Kenyan football administration.
Mariga’s football career started at Ulinzi Stars before he moved on to Tusker FC and Kenya Pipeline while still in school. He was part of the famous Kamukunji High School ‘Golden Boys’ team, which also featured Kenyan striker Dennis Oliech.
Mariga then moved to Sweden in 2005 to join third-division side Enköpings SK before signing with Helsingborgs IF, where his talent quickly shone.
Mariga’s moves
After brief stints with Portsmouth and a failed move to Manchester City due to work permit issues, Mariga eventually joined Parma in Serie A and later transferred to Inter Milan.
At Inter, he made history as the first Kenyan to play in the UEFA Champions League, winning the title in 2010. His illustrious career also saw him play for clubs such as Real Sociedad and Real Oviedo before eventually retiring from football.
