‘Privileged’ Kariobangi Sharks Wonderkid Hopes to Use Rising Stars’ AFCON U20 Campaign to Secure Future Abroad

Rising Stars midfielder Humphrey Aroko has vowed to make the most of his time with the national team during their ongoing U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign in Egypt.

The Kariobangi Sharks youngster is among the 26 players selected by head coach Salim Babu to represent Kenya in the highly competitive tournament, and he is determined to seize every moment as a stepping stone to greater heights.

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Kenya’s U20 side, the Rising Stars, will begin their journey with a tricky opener against Morocco on Thursday. They are also drawn alongside Group C heavyweights Nigeria and Tunisia in what has been dubbed the ‘Group of Death’.

The team rounded off preparations with a spirited 2-2 draw against Ghana last Thursday in Cairo — a result that bolstered their confidence heading into the crucial opening fixture.

Speaking to FKF Media, Aroko expressed how grateful he is to be part of the squad and underlined the significance of the opportunity at hand.

“So far, so good. We have trained well. Every player is showing up, and our aim is to win the tournament,” Aroko stated.

The 18-year-old, who recently went on trial at Swedish top-tier side AIK, described his inclusion in the tournament squad as a vital career milestone.

“It is a privilege. There are many players who would have made the cut, but for me to be among the 25 who did, I am grateful,” he added.

Aroko, who dreams of returning to Europe to complete a move to AIK, is inspired by former teammate Stanley Wilson — who joined the Swedish giants after turning 18 and now plays for their senior team.

He explained that his trial stint with AIK earlier last year was a unique experience, as he got the rare chance to train with the club’s first team.

“It was a really great and eye-opening moment for me. It was a bit tough because I went in for the trials at the peak of winter and had to adjust quickly to the environment. But I gave in my best, and trained well,” Aroko told Telecom Asia.

“It was a huge opportunity because most young players usually go for trials with the youth teams, but I got a chance to train with the first team, so it was massive. Wilson’s journey inspires me a lot, and I am confident that I will follow in the same path. That is my dream.”

For now, Aroko remains focused on delivering for the Rising Stars and Kariobangi Sharks. But the ultimate goal is clear — to secure his future abroad and take the next big step in his career.

“I aim to be a better player for the national team and Kariobangi Sharks, before I switch focus to going back to Europe,” he concluded.