)
The Harambee Stars prospect, who dreams of playing for Barcelona one day, recently joined Celta Vigo from the Nastic Soccer Academy.
Former Manchester United assistant coach and current Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has extended encouragement and thoughtful advice to Kenyan teenage star Aldrine Kibet following his high-profile move to Spanish La Liga side Celta Vigo from Nastic Soccer Academy.
Kibet burst onto the national football scene during the 2023 Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) games held in Kakamega last August, where he was named Most Valuable Player.
His standout performances caught national and international attention, and soon after, he moved to Nastic Academy in Tarragona, Spain, alongside fellow Kenyan talents Amos Wanjala and Alvin Kasavuli.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
The 19-year-old further solidified his reputation by leading Kenya U18 to the final of the 2023 CECAFA U18 Boys’ Championship held in Kisumu.
)
11:30 - 16.07.2025
Jude Bellingham: When Real Madrid Star is Expected Back After Shoulder Surgery
The England star has been experiencing shoulder problems since late 2023, and he is due for surgery.
Although Kenya lost to Uganda in the final, Kibet emerged as the tournament’s top scorer, reinforcing his status as one of the country’s most promising young footballers.
He also recently helped Kenya qualify for the U20 AFCON which was held in Egypt last May for the first time ever.
Eyes on Barcelona: Kibet’s Ambition Beyond La Liga
)
Since moving to Spain, Kibet has reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid, but his heart lies elsewhere. In a February 2024 interview with Pulse Sports, he made it clear that FC Barcelona remains his ultimate dream.
“Barcelona has always been my dream since I was young. I look up to them, they play good football—Guardiola football, tiki-taka. I aspire to play for Barcelona,” he said.
“My dream is not to watch Barcelona, I have to go and play with them.”
)
11:01 - 16.07.2025
Liverpool and Newcastle Battling to Sign Alexander Isak and French Striker
Liverpool and Newcastle are in a tense transfer standoff, with the Reds eyeing Alexander Isak while the Magpies chase Hugo Ekitike.
His ambition, passion, and work ethic continue to win admirers both at home and abroad.
Benni McCarthy, who is currently overseeing preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with the national team, praised Kibet’s decision to join Celta Vigo and acknowledged the club’s strong record of developing young talent.
“He couldn’t have gone to a better club. Celta Vigo produce a lot of good young players who find their way into the first team,” McCarthy noted.
“I know the city well. I lived there for seven years. It’s a beautiful place and a great environment for a young player to grow.”
McCarthy Commends the Move
)
McCarthy also shared practical guidance with the young midfielder on adapting to life in Spain:
“The best advice I can give him is to try and learn Spanish as soon as possible. Ninety-nine percent of the people in Vigo don’t speak English.
)
11:30 - 16.07.2025
Benni McCarthy Changes Harambee Stars Squad After CHAN 2024 Friendly Loss
Benni McCarthy has reshuffled the Harambee Stars CHAN squad after a poor friendly performance behind closed door.
“But the people are very kind and welcoming. He’s in a perfect place to mature both as a player and a person.”
Though not named in McCarthy’s latest Harambee Stars squad due to academy commitments, the coach affirmed that Kibet remains central to his long-term plans, particularly with the country co-hosting the AFCON 2027 tournament.
“I wanted to include him in the squad last June. Now that he’s signed for Celta Vigo, that’s a big step. I’ll definitely be following his progress closely.”
Aldrine Kibet’s journey from school competitions in Kakamega to training in Spain with professional scouts watching closely is a testament to both talent and tenacity.
With guidance from experienced mentors like Benni McCarthy and dreams that stretch as far as the Camp Nou, Kenya’s young star is well on his way to making a mark in world football.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)