Harambee Stars defender Joseph Okumu is at a career crossroads after French club Stade de Reims were relegated from Ligue 1 following a crushing playoff defeat to Metz.

Reims, who finished 16th in the league, were forced into a relegation-promotion playoff. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg on Thursday, May 29, 2025, the return fixture ended in heartbreak as Metz triumphed 3-1 after extra time, winning 4-1 on aggregate to reclaim their Ligue 1 status.

Okumu, who joined Reims in 2023, was a regular throughout the season, making 28 appearances and scoring once. Despite his consistent performances, the team struggled to maintain form, culminating in a disappointing finish to the campaign. They also lost the French Cup final to Paris Saint-Germain just days before their playoff collapse.

From Kisumu to Europe

Joseph Okumu’s football journey is a testament to determination and talent. He began his career in Kisumu before turning professional with Chemelil Sugar, a former Football Kenya Federation Premier League side, shortly after completing his high school education at Kakamega High School.

It didn’t take long for the promising centre-back to catch the eye beyond Kenya’s borders. Just six months into his professional career, Okumu moved to South Africa to join Free State Stars. In 2018, he switched continents to play for AFC Ann Arbor in the United States, followed by a move to Real Monarchs.

His impressive displays abroad led to a breakthrough opportunity in Europe when he signed with Swedish club IF Elfsborg in 2019. From there, he steadily climbed the ranks, attracting interest across the continent and eventually earning a move to France with Reims in 2023.

Reims’ fall from grace

Founded in 1931, Reims is a storied club in French football history, boasting six Ligue 1 titles, the last of which came in 1962. While they managed an 11th-place finish in the 2023/24 season, this year marked a steep decline. The loss to Metz confirmed their first relegation since their promotion back to the top tier in 2018.

With the club now bound for Ligue 2, Okumu faces a critical decision, remain and help Reims fight for promotion, or seek a move to remain in top-flight football. Given his experience and consistent performances, he is expected to attract attention from other European clubs.

As the transfer window looms, all eyes will be on Okumu’s next move, and whether he can continue his upward trajectory despite the setback.