Blow to Harambee Stars as Polish Giants Confirm Key Defender Erick 'Marcelo' Ouma Faces 'Months' on The Sidelines

Polish top-tier club Rakow Częstochowa has provided a significant update on the injury status of Harambee Stars defender Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma, who recently missed selection for Kenya's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The dynamic full-back has been sidelined for both his club and the national team, prompting concern from fans about his recovery progress.

In a Facebook post on Friday, September 5, Raków updated supporters on Ouma's condition following a successful operation.

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"Erick Otieno underwent successful Achilles tendon surgery. He now faces several months of rehabilitation and a fight to get back on the field. We're with you, Erick! Get well soon!" the club stated.

Ouma ruptured his Achilles tendon during a training session on Tuesday, August 26, as the team prepared for the second leg of their UEFA Conference League qualifier against Bulgarian side Arda.

At the time of the injury, the club announced, "Erick Otieno suffered an injury during Tuesday's training. Unfortunately, scans have confirmed a ruptured Achilles tendon. The Kenyan will undergo surgery in the coming days. Erick, we stand with you."

Raków was subsequently eliminated from the UEFA Conference League after Arda overturned a 1-0 first-leg deficit with a 2-1 victory in the return match.

Ouma's teammates demonstrated their support by wearing shirts printed with the message "Erick, we are with you" before their 2-0 league defeat to Pogoń Szczecin on Sunday, August 31.

The injury is also a major setback for Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy, who considered Ouma a key player in his plans for the World Cup qualifiers.

As a result, the defender missed Kenya's 3-1 loss to The Gambia and will also be absent for the upcoming match against Seychelles on Tuesday, September 9. Given the severity of the injury, Ouma is expected to be sidelined for approximately seven months.