How Victor Wanyama’s New FIFPRO Role Impacts Kenyan Football

Former Kenya international and Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama has taken up a significant internationalposition.

He was appointed to the FIFPRO Global Player Council (GPC) on September 30, 2025. This new role places the veteran player at the core of global football decision-making.

Wanyama is the only Kenyan player selected for the council.

A Seat at the Top Table

The Global Player Council is designed to ensure that the voices of active professional footballers are central to discussions about the future of the sport. The council, which includes both male and female players, relaunched with 37 members globally.

Wanyama joins other high-profile players like World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister and five-time Women’s Champions League winner Lucy Bronze.

As part of the GPC, Wanyama will help shape conversations on vital player-centric matters. These issues include employment standards, the international match calendar, and dealing with social media abuse.

The FIFPRO Secretary General, Alex Phillips, highlighted the influence of the players involved.

“Footballers hold the power to shape their industry for the better.”

Strengthening the National Game

Wanyama's participation provides Kenya with direct representation at the highest level of player advocacy. His voice will inform decisions affecting careers worldwide.

The GPC’s mission is also to strengthen the capacity of national player unions to address international issues. This process ensures that global representation is grounded in the guidance of national associations.

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Wanyama joins other African representatives, including Wolves midfielder Marshall Munetsi, Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo, Mamelodi Sundowns defender Terrence Mashego, Zambia’s Racheal Kundananji, Cape Verde international Roberto Lopes, and Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade.

Beyond this new global position, Wanyama continues to invest locally. Through his foundation and academy, he focuses on developing the next generation of Kenyan footballers. Work is ongoing to create quality training grounds.

“We believe in good surfaces because they make players feel good and showcase their talent.”

Plans are also in place to open a branch of his academy in Nairobi, expanding its reach across Kenya.

Planning for Life After Playing

The international appointment marks another step in Wanyama’s transition beyond his playing career. He previously captained the Harambee Stars, leading them at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

He retired from international duty in 2021 after earning over 60 caps for the national team. The 34-year-old is preparing for future opportunities in football administration or coaching.