August 10, 2026

Why Eric Ouma Misses Out on Harambee Stars Squad

Why Eric Ouma Misses Out on Harambee Stars Squad
Eric Ouma during a past world cup qualifiers game against Gabon at Nyayo Stadium. Photo; Ian Wesanza.

Ouma revealed that he ruptured his Achilles tendon during training, ruling him out of both club and national duty.

Harambee Stars have been dealt a blow ahead of their World Cup qualifiers next week after defender Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma confirmed he will miss out due to injury.

Ouma revealed that he ruptured his Achilles tendon during training, ruling him out of both club and national duty.

“Unfortunately yesterday during our training I got injured and the test revealed that I ruptured my Achilles tendon. I would have wished to play for my club and Kenya during the upcoming games but unfortunately it is beyond my control. I will do everything to come back stronger than ever. God bless you all,” Ouma shared in a heartfelt message to fans.

His absence leaves coach Benni McCarthy without one of his most experienced defenders as Kenya prepares for back-to-back home qualifiers against The Gambia on September 5 and Seychelles on September 9 at Kasarani.

Despite the setback, McCarthy has named a  23-man squad for the double header at Kasarani next week.

Final Squad:
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Brian Bwire
Defenders: Sylvester Owino, Alphonce Omija, Collins Sichenje, Michael Kibwage, Ronney Onyango, Abud Omar, Lewis Bandi
Midfielders: Richard Odada, Alpha Onyango, Duke Abuya, Manzur Suleiman, Timothy Ouma, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire
Wingers: Emmanuel Osoro, William Lenkupae, Job Ochieng, Boniface Muchiri
Strikers: Michael Olunga, Ryan Ogam