Aldrine Kibet lauds grassroots football tournaments as avenue for youth empowerment
By Kenneth Mwenda, December 28, 2025Celta Vigo midfielder Aldrine Kibet spent part of his festive break back home in Kenya, where he attended the DIG Masengeli Super Cup final in Saboti.
The 19-year-old used the occasion to underline the importance of grassroots football in developing young players across the country. The final attracted a strong turnout, bringing together local football fans, community leaders and national figures.
Kibet later shared his experience in a Facebook post published on December 28, 2025, praising the tournament for its role in nurturing young talent, promoting teamwork and empowering youth through sport.
The event was also attended by Interior Cabinet Secretary Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen and Trans-Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang, among others.
“Great Moments in Saboti ,I attended the DIG Masengeli Super Cup final in Saboti an inspiring platform that nurtures young talents, promotes teamwork and empowers our youth through sports. Also in attendance were CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen Senator Allan Chesang Hon Thomas Kiptoo Kwalia and many others,” he posted on his Facebook account.
Rising profile abroad
Kibet’s appearance in Saboti came at a time when his career in Spain continues to gather attention back home. In July 2025, the former St Anthony’s Boys High School student completed a move to Spanish side Celta Vigo, signing a four-year deal that runs until 2029. He joined the club on a free transfer and initially linked up with the B team, Celta Fortuna.
Since the transfer, Kibet has remained one of Kenya’s most talked-about young footballers. Hundreds of Kenyan fans have followed his progress closely, often flooding Celta Vigo’s social media pages with calls for him to earn more minutes and a chance with the senior side.
The attacking midfielder has responded on the pitch. He made his professional debut in August 2025 and went on to deliver consistent performances for the club’s youth and reserve teams.
By the end of the year, he had scored three goals in two matches, including a brace in a heavy win over Real Oviedo’s Under-19 side in November 2025.
His form did not go unnoticed. In early December 2025, Kibet trained with Celta Vigo’s first team ahead of a high-profile La Liga match against Real Madrid. Although he did not make the final matchday squad, the call-up marked another step forward in his development.
Kibet also reached a major milestone at the international level in November 2025 when he earned his first senior call-up to the Harambee Stars. He made his debut against Equatorial Guinea at the age of 19, capping a year that confirmed his rise from school football to the professional stage.
Despite his growing profile in Europe, Kibet has continued to stay connected to football at home. His attendance at the DIG Masengeli Super Cup final reflected his support for local tournaments that give young players exposure and motivation.