Ex-Kenyan captain Musa Otieno interested in Harambee Stars job

Former Harambee Stars captain Musa Otieno has expressed his readiness to coach the national team following the resignation of Turkish tactician Engin Firat earlier this month.

This comes amid reports that former coach Francis Kimanzi is set to be appointed to the role.  

Otieno, a highly experienced figure in Kenyan football, made his intentions known during the National Sports Talent Elite Camp at Aga Khan High School in Nairobi.

The camp was organized by the Kenya Academy of Sports (KAS).

The 50-year-old CAF 'A' licensed coach emphasized his preparedness for the role while acknowledging the importance of divine timing.

“I'm a qualified coach and I am ready to take the job. However, as a believer, I know God has His own timing. It’s not that I lack the necessary credentials to lead the national team. Sometimes you wonder why such opportunities don’t come your way, but I trust that God’s timing is the best,” said Otieno.

Known affectionately as ‘Otero,’ Otieno’s illustrious football career began at the age of 19 when he made his national team debut against Zaire in 1993.

Over the years, he earned 105 caps and captained Harambee Stars for 13 years, making him Kenya’s most-capped player in history.

Otieno’s coaching credentials are equally impressive. He has served as an assistant coach for Harambee Stars under various head coaches between 2011 and 2022.

Additionally, he has managed FKF Premier League side Kenya Police FC and spearheaded the Talanta Hela programme initiated by former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.

Beyond his professional roles, Otieno runs Off To Hope Academy in Jericho, Nairobi, where he nurtures young football talent.