Clyde Senaji, a versatile player capable of featuring in both central defense and midfield, is optimistic about making a return to the Kenya national football team, Harambee Stars, ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Having been sidelined from the national setup for the past six months, the experienced footballer remains determined to fight for his place and represent his country on home soil.
Kenya is set to co-host the prestigious biennial tournament in 2027 alongside Tanzania and Uganda, marking the first time in history that AFCON will be staged by three nations. The upcoming competition will also be historic as it will be the first time the tournament returns to the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) region in over five decades, with Ethiopia last hosting in 1976. Given the significance of the event, every Kenyan footballer aspires to be part of the squad that will compete in front of home fans, and Senaji is no exception.
Determined to Make a Comeback
The 28-year-old, who currently plays for FCB Nyasa Big Bullets in Malawi, last donned the Harambee Stars jersey in June 2024. At the time, he was included in the squad under Turkish coach Engin Firat, featuring in crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Ivory Coast and Burundi. However, with Firat departing the national team setup in January 2025 and Francis Kimanzi stepping in as the new head coach, every player now has a fresh opportunity to impress and stake their claim for selection.
Determined to earn a recall, Senaji is focused on delivering top performances at the club level to capture the attention of national team selectors. He acknowledges that his versatility in playing both as a central defender and a midfielder gives him an added advantage, as coaches often look for players who can cover multiple positions effectively.
“At the moment, my target is to ensure that I’m continually performing well for the club to be able to get a glimpse from national selectors. It would be a proud moment for me to play an AFCON at home,” Senaji expressed from his base in Blantyre, Malawi.
Experience and Versatility
Senaji’s experience in both domestic and international football makes him a strong candidate for a return to the national team. Having played for top Kenyan clubs like AFC Leopards and Tusker FC before moving to Malawi, he understands the demands of high-level football. His ability to read the game, combined with his physical presence at 1.83 meters tall, makes him an asset in both defensive and midfield roles.
With the 2027 AFCON still two years away, Senaji has ample time to prove himself. However, he understands that the competition for places will be fierce, as many players will be vying for a spot in the squad. Kenya’s qualification campaign and upcoming friendly matches will be crucial in determining who makes the cut when the final squad for the tournament is named.
“That is my dream and ambition, and I’m working towards it. I believe it is a target I can comfortably achieve because I have enough experience playing for both the national team and the club as well,” he stated confidently.
A Historic AFCON on Home Soil
The 2027 AFCON will be a special moment for Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, as they prepare to host Africa’s biggest football tournament for the first time. The tournament is expected to bring economic benefits, enhance football infrastructure, and raise the level of the sport within the region. Playing at home in front of passionate fans will be a massive boost for Harambee Stars, and players like Senaji are eager to be part of history.
For Kenya, performing well at the tournament will be a priority, given the high expectations from fans and stakeholders. With a new coach at the helm and a renewed sense of purpose, the team will be looking to assemble the best squad possible. Senaji’s ability to provide options in multiple positions could be a key factor in his selection.
As he continues his journey in club football, Senaji remains hopeful that his efforts will pay off and that he will earn a place in the Harambee Stars squad for AFCON 2027. With hard work and consistency, he aims to turn his dream into reality and proudly represent Kenya on one of the biggest football stages in Africa.
