OPINION: Harambee Stars must tap Kenyan heritage players abroad to build formidable Afcon27 squad

But the real question should be, are Harambee Stars going to make a mark on home soil?

The national football team has a golden opportunity to make a deep run at Kasarani or the newly built Raila Odinga International Stadium, but to compete with Africa's elite, we need more quality, experience, and depth.

The smartest move right now? Aggressively pursue and integrate players of Kenyan heritage playing in top European leagues who remain eligible to switch allegiance.

Kenya has long relied on home-grown talent and a few exports like Michael Olunga, Joseph Okumu, and the emerging youth stars in Spain.

But the diaspora holds untapped gems, players born or raised abroad with Kenyan roots through parents or grandparents.

These footballers have been nurtured in elite academies, exposed to high-intensity competition, and bring technical polish, tactical awareness, and winning mentality that can elevate the national team instantly. 

Head coach Benni McCarthy —or whoever is in charge by 2027 —should make this a priority.

We can't afford that anymore. Ahead of AFCON 2027, the FKF and technical team must reach out, fast-track documentation, and convince these talents that representing Harambee Stars is a proud, viable path.

Here are some standout names with Kenyan heritage who are eligible (or potentially eligible) and could transform the squad:

Tyler Onyango (Everton, on loan at Stockport County – English Premier League pathway): The young midfielder born in England to a Kenyan father has impressed in youth setups and even featured in senior squad training.

He's expressed openness to the Harambee Stars jersey—imagine his Premier League-honed skills in midfield adding control and creativity.

Linton Maina (FC Köln, Bundesliga): A technical winger/attacking midfielder born in Germany to a Kenyan father. He's represented Germany at youth levels but remains switchable. His pace, dribbling, and goal threat could give our attack the edge it's often lacked against top sides.

Clement Mutahi Bischoff (RB Salzburg-linked or Austrian leagues): Danish-born with Kenyan heritage through his father. A promising talent in top youth setups—his versatility and European polish could add depth in attack or midfield.

Zak Vyner (Bristol City/Championship): Defender with Kenyan ties—solid, ball-playing centre-back who could partner Okumu effectively.

Others like Eliot Matazo (recently at Hull City, Belgian-born with Kenyan mother links), Solomon Wanjau-Smith (RB Salzburg youth), and various under-the-radar prospects in Germany, Austria, and England show the depth available.

The benefits are clear: These players bring professionalism, no need for basic development, and inspiration for local talent—showing that Kenyan heritage can reach the highest levels. Successful integrations (like past diaspora call-ups) prove it works when pursued properly.

Critics might say “focus on locals” or “they won't commit,” but that's short sighted. Countries like Morocco, Algeria, and Senegal have thrived by blending homegrown stars with diaspora powerhouses. Kenya can do the same—especially as co-hosts with home advantage.

The time to act is now. Reach out, clear the red tape, offer genuine projects, and build a squad that mixes our passionate local core with world-class heritage talent. AFCON 2027 isn't just about participating—it's about shocking Africa and putting Kenya on the global map.