Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has highlighted the immense potential of Mohammed Bajaber, emphasizing the young midfielder’s crucial role in the national team setup. McCarthy was immediately impressed by Bajaber after just one training session, recognizing his talent and fearless approach to the game.
Bajaber’s impact was evident in Harambee Stars’ thrilling 3-3 draw against Gambia during the 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ivory Coast. The attacking midfielder, currently playing for Kenya Police, played a key role in the match, scoring a vital goal just 15 minutes after coming on as a substitute.
McCarthy, formerly an assistant coach at Manchester United under Erik ten Hag, believes Bajaber deserves more opportunities to showcase his abilities. He praised the player’s courage and willingness to take risks, qualities he considers essential for success at the highest level.
During a recent minicamp with local players, Bajaber stood out with his technical ability and confidence on the ball. McCarthy expressed admiration for his attitude, highlighting his potential to play a significant role in the team’s resurgence.
According to McCarthy, Bajaber is the kind of player required to restore Harambee Stars’ past glory. He stressed that while Bajaber is still a work in progress, his natural talent and determination will make him an integral part of the team. McCarthy questioned why previous coaches had overlooked the midfielder, suggesting that denying such players opportunities hinders the development of football talent in the country.
Expressing satisfaction with his decision to field Bajaber, McCarthy believes the young star has proven his worth and shown what the national team had been missing. He is confident that with consistent playing time and the right mentorship, Bajaber will continue to grow into a key player for Harambee Stars.
McCarthy further assured that the young midfielder will improve significantly under his guidance, attributing this to Bajaber’s work ethic and eagerness to learn. He commended the player’s humility and commitment to self-improvement, qualities that will help him refine his game.
With Bajaber’s impressive performance against Gambia, the focus now shifts to whether he will be given a starting role in the crucial upcoming match against Gabon. His recent display has strengthened his case for inclusion in the starting lineup, and fans will be eager to see how he continues to develop under McCarthy’s leadership.
As Harambee Stars prepare for their next challenge, Bajaber’s emergence signals a positive step for the team’s future. His confidence, skill, and attacking prowess provide a glimpse of the potential he brings to the national squad. With McCarthy at the helm, the young midfielder has a promising road ahead, offering hope for Kenyan football’s resurgence on the international stage.
