Psychometric test blocked Oliech’s Man United dream, says 'Ghost' Mulee

Speaking on an online podcast talk show, Mulee recounted how United closely monitored Oliech at the height of his powers, describing the striker as one of the most feared forwards of his generation.

“In 2004, Dennis was among the top ten strikers in the world,” Mulee sensationally said, insisting the interest from Old Trafford was genuine and advanced.

According to Mulee, Manchester United sent two representatives to assess Oliech while the Harambee Stars were in Tunisia for the Africa Cup of Nations.

One was a traditional scout, impressed by Oliech’s explosive pace, strength, and fearlessness in attack. The other official, however, focused on psychometric testing, which aimed to evaluate the player’s mental profile beyond their footballing talent.

“The scout told me there was no doubt Dennis was a top player,” Mulee revealed. “But the psychometric results raised questions. It’s not just about talent. Big clubs want to know your mindset, your character, and whether you fit their environment.”

Mulee did not disclose the exact outcome of the assessment but confirmed the tests were conducted privately, using his own room during the AFCON. The move ultimately stalled, and Oliech never leaped the Premier League.

The former coach also highlighted Oliech’s immense courage on the pitch, recalling a 2003 international friendly against Nigeria shortly after the Super Eagles returned from the World Cup.

Despite intimidation from officials and opponents, a teenage Oliech confidently went toe-to-toe with defensive enforcers such as Taribo West.

“How many players have that kind of bravery?” Mulee posed. “There’s always one like that. For us, it was Dennis.”

The revelation adds another chapter to Oliech’s storied career, which included Ligue 1 spells with Nantes and Auxerre and a famous rejection of a lucrative Qatari citizenship offer in 2004.

Choosing patriotism over fortune, Oliech remained Kenyan, later becoming one of the country’s greatest football icons and second all-time top scorer.

Mulee’s account has reignited debate over what might have been, and how close Kenyan football came to seeing one of its own at the very summit of the global game.