Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has made three last-minute changes to his final 25-man squad ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which kicks off on August 2, 2025. The tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marks Kenya’s debut in the continental competition reserved for local-based players.

Shabana FC midfielder Brian Michira, Tusker FC’s Chrispin Erambo, and Sofapaka forward Edward Omondi have been drafted in to replace the outgoing trio of Mohammed Bajaber, Swaleh Pamba, and Brian Musa. Bajaber’s absence is reportedly linked to a move to Tanzanian giants Simba SC, ruling him out of the domestic-only tournament.

The reshuffle comes just days before Kenya’s opening clash against DR Congo on August 3 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The Harambee Stars are placed in a challenging Group A that also features Angola, Morocco, and Zambia, dubbed the “Group of Death” by fans and pundits alike.

Mulee backs McCarthy’s vision

Former national team coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee weighed in on the challenge ahead, urging Kenyans to rally behind the squad and trust McCarthy’s vision. Speaking to a local media station, Mulee emphasised that CHAN 2024 presents a golden opportunity for local players to showcase the strength of the FKF Premier League and stake a claim for future international duty.

“There’s no shortcut. The players must work hard and prove they deserve to be on that pitch,” said Mulee. “This is also a test of how competitive our domestic league has become. Let’s back these boys and give the coach room to do his job.”

The updated squad list features experienced names like Faruk Shikhalo and Abud Omar, as well as emerging talents such as Austin Odhiambo and Felix Oluoch. The home advantage, bolstered by passionate local support at Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, could prove decisive in what promises to be an intense group stage.

As anticipation builds, McCarthy will hope his new inclusions can bring fresh energy and depth to the team. The tournament offers not only continental glory but also a platform for Kenyan football to assert its growth and ambition ahead of AFCON 2027.

Final CHAN 2024 squad highlights

Goal Keepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Sebastian Wekesa

Defenders: Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu

Midfielders: Chrispine Erambo, Brian Michira, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire

Fowards: Edward Omondi, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Masoud Juma, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch