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McDonald Mariga has jumped to the defence of Benni McCarthy following his decision to recall his brother and fellow former Champions League finalist Victor Wanyama to the Harambee Stars set up.
Former Harambee Stars and Inter Milan midfielder McDonald Mariga has defended Benni McCarthy’s Decision to recall Victor Wanyama to the national team fold after nearly five years in the cold, which has elicited mixed reaction.
Earlier this week, McCarthy chose to recall Wanyama, who retired in November 2021 from international duty while picking a core of mostly-local based players for their double- June friendly encounters against Chad in Morocco with an eye on preparing for the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN) which Kenya will co-host.
Although Wanyama later withdrew due to “personal reasons” he is trying to resolve back in the UK where he plays for Scottish second tier side Dunfermline Athletic.
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In his place, McCarthy decided to hand a call-up to Gor Mahia FC midfielder Austine Odhiambo.
The playmaker, who has been in impressive form since returning from injury, brings renewed creativity and depth to the squad’s midfield.
McDonald Mariga: Fans Need to Respect Benni McCarthy’s Decision
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Addressing the criticism that followed Wanyama’s surprise return to the media on Saturday,, Mariga stressed the importance of respecting the coach’s decisions and valuing the leadership that seasoned players like Wanyama can offer.
“I think the coach wanted some experience and leadership added to the squad. We have a good team, but limited experience,” Mariga said.
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“As a player, you want to learn under someone experienced. I don’t know what [Victor] has decided, but I will have a conversation with the coach to clarify his thinking. I have no power to decide who gets called up and who does not.”
Mariga also warned against fans pressuring players to hang up their boots prematurely, pointing to global icons like Javier Zanetti, who retired well into their 40s.
“Fans cannot tell someone to retire if they feel they can give more. We’ve seen players like Zanetti retire at 40 or 41. If you can still contribute to your club and country, it is okay. Asking players to retire early is a big problem.”
“Even in our league, we call for players to retire as young as 32. Yet out there, players retire at 40 or 41. If you can still do it at that age, there’s no problem. I think fans need to give people a chance—even those as young as 16 or 17.”
Mariga: Fans Need to Be More Supportive
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He further urged Kenyan fans to adopt a more supportive approach, especially when it comes to honoring and encouraging players rather than tearing them down.
“These things can demoralise you as a player. In other countries, you see legendary players even playing honorary farewell matches. The fans need to support the players and let the coach do his job.”
Victor Wanyama Academy Making Fine Progress
Mariga also noted logistical challenges in completing the Victor Wanyama Academy in Busia, two years since revealing to the public of its construction.
“We are making fine progress, but the ground has been challenging to level up. We were told we need to gradually level it because it might gain technical issues later if we rush completing it. However, classes and offices are finished, so it is all about making sure the pitch is good enough.”
As the Kenya gear up for their CHAN campaign under a new coach and with a blend of youth and experience, Mariga’s remarks serve as a timely reminder of the value of unity, patience, and long-term vision.
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