Harambee Stars Captain Michael Olunga Gives Ryan Ogam Stamp of Approval As He Gives CHAN Millionaires Timely Advice

Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga has heaped praise on Ryan Ogam following his African Nations Championships (CHAN) 2024 heroics, which are set to earn him a move to Australian outfit Wolfsburger, as well as a place in the main side ahead of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Seychelles.

Stars will be facing Gambia at Kasarani Stadium on Friday, before taking on Seychelles in their next match as they hope to keep their faint qualification hopes alive.

Speaking to the media from the Utalii Grounds in Nairobi on Monday afternoon, Olunga, who has already netted two league goals for his new side Al Arabi in Qatar, was full of praise for the Tusker point man, who proved himself to be a striker capable of leading the line for the next number of years for Kenya.

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“Ryan is a player of very good quality, and you could see that in his performance for the national team, just like any other player who was given the opportunity.

“ This is what we need. It’s a good moment and also an opportunity for other players to showcase their skills. We’ll work together to get the best out of each other, and that is in the best interest of the country.”

Kenya will be facing Gambia knowing they have to win to stand any chance of keeping their dreams alive, but it will be anything but smooth, considering the Scopions forced them to labor to a 3-3 draw last March.

Coached by Johnathan McKinstry, Gambia is a side that boasts high potential talents, including Brighton’s Yankubah Minteh, who netted against the Kenyans in the first leg.

“I can’t say much, but about the Gambia game—you saw how the first leg went. They are a good side with quality players, so it was a difficult match. 

“We expect the same level of competition from them. Right now, though, the team is in good spirits, the players are motivated, and the fans are ready to support us. I believe we can replicate a strong performance, just like you saw at CHAN.”

Olunga also weighed in on the government-issued bonuses that turned CHAN 2024 heroes into millionaires overnight, urging players to stay disciplined and focused.

“I take a pause, breathe, and think, because success comes with many things—friends, fame, recognition. If players are not level-headed, they can lose focus. But this is just the beginning of greater things in their careers.

“ Money will always come in football, as long as you work hard, stay consistent, and put in the effort,” Olunga explained.

“I’m proud that, for once, the players, technical bench, and national team were well appreciated for their service. We hope this continues. 

“Many of these players in the local Premier League sometimes go six to eight months without salaries. So, yes, the bonuses were a big amount of money, but I believe most of them have good people around them to guide them.

“It’s not always easy to advise people when money comes, but the players are grounded. You can see it in their performances even after receiving the bonuses—it was impressive. I believe they are heading in the right direction.”