Kenyan Teen Sensation Signs Career-Changing Deal With Swiss Giants FC Zurich

Promising Kenyan talent Damien Osborne Odera has secured his first professional contract, signing a long-term deal with Swiss Super League club FC Zurich that will keep him at the club until 2030.

The 18-year-old, who is the son of former Kenyan international and current Murang’a Seal head coach Osborne Monday, has been a part of Zurich's youth system since joining in July 2024. His rapid progress has now been rewarded with a professional contract.

In an official statement, the club confirmed the signing: "FC Zurich is pleased to announce that Damien Osborne Odera (born July 26, 2007) has signed his first professional contract, valid until 2030."

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The statement continued, "The 18-year-old attacking all-rounder, who can play both as a winger and striker, joined the club’s U19 side in the summer of 2024 from German outfit FC Radolfzell (where he came through the ranks)."

Odera, who holds dual eligibility for Kenya and Germany, has already made a significant impact. He has featured 10 times for the club's U21 team in the Swiss Promotion League and has been involved in several training sessions with the senior squad.

Expressing his commitment to the club, Odera stated, "I was warmly welcomed at FC Zurich and have already been able to develop a lot here. Despite receiving many other offers, I signed a five-year contract with FCZ because I’m convinced this is the right environment for me. I want to realise my dream here and, in the medium term, make the step up to the first team."

As Odera continues his development, he could feature for the U21 side against Bruhl on Sunday, November 9, or potentially earn a spot in the senior team's squad for their upcoming league match against Luzern on Saturday.

Odera's journey marks another success story for Kenyan football abroad, as he follows in his father's footsteps while forging his own career in the competitive European landscape.