FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Why Austin Odhiambo Missed Out on Harambee Stars Squad

Queries have been raised across social media following Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy's announcement of his team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against The Gambia and Seychelles.

The creative midfielder, arguably the most skilled player in the FKF Premier League, was anticipated to feature after his dominant displays at the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Odhiambo scored crucial goals in games against Angola and DR Congo, and his vision and talent earned Kenya a quarterfinal qualification. Yet, when it mattered most versus Madagascar, he was kept on the bench for the full 120 minutes as Kenya lost via post-match penalties.

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The exclusion by McCarthy of Odhiambo from the World Cup qualifiers has left many puzzled, with far-reaching speculation regarding what exactly motivated the exclusion.

"All these are falsehoods. If he had an issue, he wouldn't have come to camp. The coach has no tolerance for indiscipline and even sent out members of the support staff for similar reasons. There is no way Austin would have stayed at the camp, let alone be included in the squad, if it was about discipline," averred one player to Mozzart Sport.

Gossip of alleged bad behavior spread quickly among footballing ranks, but those who had trained alongside Odhiambo at CHAN stoutly defended the story.

Teammates and backroom staff alike stood up for the midfielder, adding that he was professional and dedicated throughout the tournament.

Another source cast a spotlight on McCarthy's preferred style of play, theorizing the snub wasn't about behavior so much as style.

"I think the coach likes having workers, and Austin is a more or less technical player. That's maybe where the conflict could have arisen. But definitely nothing to do with discipline—because if it was, he wouldn't have lasted a day at camp. The coach doesn't accommodate that."

McCarthy himself has so far avoided providing a straight answer. On Wednesday, he clarified via Instagram that defender Erick Ouma was out due to injury and Mohamed Bajaber was also returning to fitness.

But when Odhiambo's name was mentioned, the coach remained silent, prompting fans to make their own conclusions.

Theories currently shift in favor of McCarthy's preference for high-pressing, hard-working players able to execute his attacking methodology. Although Odhiambo is admired for his creativity, vision, and goal returns, critics indicate that he struggles to provide the defensive intensity needed at the international level.

Odhiambo's omission stands out particularly in light of his club form.

With Gor Mahia, he has been a fixture in the past three seasons as record winners restored back-to-back league titles in 2022–23 and 2023–24.

His goal-scoring, assists, and penetration of defenses have won the heart of the fans, and aged 24, he has been poised for a possible transfer to Europe.

Transfer rumors have already seen him on the radars of clubs in Belgium and the rest of Africa, none of which came through during the previous campaign. Gor Mahia cling to hopes of keeping him as they seek success in the 2025–26 season.

Harambee Stars will now play Gambia on September 5 and Seychelles on September 9 without one of Kenya's biggest talents.