Victor Wanyama Drops Brutal Truth About Football Life in Europe: 'No One Has Time For You'

Former Celtic midfielder Victor Wanyama has opened up about the love he received from the club's supporters and what Kenyan players should brace for after signing lucrative deals with European clubs.

After moving to Europe in 2007, Victor Wanyama rose to prominence as a powerhouse defensive midfielder, famously helping Celtic to two league titles and scoring a legendary Champions League goal against Barcelona.

He made history in 2013 as the first Kenyan to play in the English Premier League when he joined Southampton, later moving to Tottenham Hotspur, where he reached the 2019 Champions League Final.

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Following a four-year stint in MLS with CF Montréal, Victor Wanyama returned to European football in early 2025 to join the Scottish side Dunfermline Athletic.

In an interview with the East African, the midfielder offered a candid perspective on the transient nature of friendships in professional football, emphasising the importance of family.

"Contrary to what many think, football isn’t a sport where you get to make friends," Wanyama shared.

"One minute you could be playing for this team, and the next you have been sold to a different club... In Europe, no one has time for you, and that makes you realise just how important your family is because they will always be there for you."

However, Victor Wanyama added that his time at Celtic was a little bit different. He pointed out that the love he received was unparalleled throughout his career, even after successful spells in the English Premier League.

The Harambee Stars legend became a cult hero at Parkhead, creating lasting memories, including his famous goal in the historic Champions League victory over Barcelona.

Signed by Neil Lennon from Belgian side Beerschot A.C. in 2011, the Kenyan international quickly established himself as a dominant force in midfield.

"Where I experienced more love was in Celtic," Victor Wanyama stated in an interview. "The fans there adore me so much. It was a beautiful feeling and experience."

Victor Wanyama is often cited as one of Celtic's best modern midfielders and a prime example of the club's once-lauded transfer strategy of identifying and developing talent. His comments highlight the deep connection he still feels with the Scottish champions.

"I was treated well in every European club I played for," he explained. "But I think where I experienced more love was in Celtic."

Meanwhile, after a demanding career in the English top flight, persistent injuries led Wanyama to move to the MLS with CF Montréal before turning 30.

He briefly reunited with Neil Lennon last season at Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Championship, though the move did not work out.

Currently without a club, the former Harambee Stars captain, recently seen in action during the March international break, was representing a Southampton legends team in a match against Manchester United legends.