Michael Olunga Breaks Silence on Surprise Omission from Harambee Stars Squad

Harambee Stars striker Michael Olunga has explained his absence from the squad set to face Madagascar and Comoros in Antalya, Turkey, during the upcoming FIFA window from November 10 to 18, 2025.

Michael Olunga’s omission came as a surprise, with coach Benni McCarthy naming a mix of experienced players and new talents.

The attacking lineup is led by Ryan Ogam (Wolfsberger) and also features Austine Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), William Lenkupae (VPS), Job Ochieng (Real Sociedad), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), and Adam Wilson (New Saints).

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Aldrine Kibet (Celta Vigo) will make his debut alongside Ovellah Ochieng (Nairobi United), Jonah Ayunga (St Mirren), and Lawrence Okoth (SJK Seinajoki).

In an interview with Flashscore, Michael Olunga stated that his focus remains on bigger goals, including representing Harambee Stars at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Harambee Stars striker acknowledged that the decision to omit him was made by Benni McCarthy and expressed confidence that it serves the team’s best interests.

Michael Olunga added that he still has much to contribute to Kenyan football and will always be ready to answer the call whenever needed.

"That's the coach's decision. I believe each and every player was selected on merit," Michael Olunga shared.

"We're entering a new transition phase, bringing young players into the squad. The senior players have been dropped for the friendlies, giving the coach a chance to integrate and test the new boys.

"I know I still have a lot more to give to Kenya. Whenever the country needs me, I'll always be there. It's always an honour to represent Kenya."

Michael Olunga expressed that having Benni McCarthy, South Africa’s all-time leading scorer, as coach inspires him to believe such achievements are within reach.

The Al Arabi SC striker added that by continuing to put in effort with the national team, he hopes to one day become Kenya’s record goalscorer.

"Having a coach like Benni McCarthy, who is the all-time top scorer for South Africa, gives me the motivation to believe it is achievable," he added.

"Hopefully, if I continue to work hard with the national team, God will give me the opportunity one day to be the all-time top goalscorer for Kenya."

Michael Olunga also expressed his excitement about the progress of fellow Kenyan forward Ryan Ogam, who recently secured a move to Austrian club Wolfsberger.

"It's a very good, positive thing for Kenyan football. I'm so happy for him," Michael Olunga commented.

"It shows that we have the potential to produce these kinds of players. I wish him the best in Austria and know he has the quality to be one of the top strikers produced in our country."

Despite his omission from the upcoming friendlies, Michael Olunga remains committed to Harambee Stars, emphasising his support for the team’s transition and his determination to continue contributing to Kenyan football.