Adrine Kibet (R) in action for Celta Youth/HANDOUTHarambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy says his latest squad selection “reflects Kenya’s football future,” as he named teenage prodigy Aldrine Kibet in his 25-man team for the November Fifa international window.
The South African unveiled a balance of youth and experience ahead of friendlies against Madagascar and Comoros, to be played in Antalya, Turkey.
Kenya opens their campaign on November 14 before facing Comoros on November 17 or 18.
“These games are part of our long-term project,” McCarthy said. “I want to see hunger, speed and intelligence — that’s why players like Aldrine Kibet are here. They represent the next generation of Kenyan football.”
Kibet’s inclusion marks a major milestone in his young career. The 19-year-old midfielder, who plays for Celta Vigo’s youth side in Spain, first came to prominence during the national secondary school games with St Anthony’s Boys Kitale, where he was voted Most Valuable Player.
His creativity, composure and sharp technical play earned him a move to Europe — and now, a dream call-up to the senior national team. The teenager could make his full debut in Turkey if he impresses McCarthy in training.
“Kibet has shown maturity beyond his years,” McCarthy said. “He’s creative, disciplined and plays with purpose. He deserves this chance.”
The Harambee Stars lineup also sees the return of several familiar names. Zamalek defender Baron Ochieng’ re-joins after an impressive spell in Egypt, while Nairobi United’s Ovella Ochieng’ makes a long-awaited comeback to add pace and width.
Kenya’s defensive spine remains anchored by captain Michael Kibwage, while Duke Abuya and Byrne Omondi continue to play key roles in midfield and goal, respectively.
“This isn’t just a squad for two friendlies,” McCarthy explained. “It’s a foundation for future tournaments. We’re building a team capable of competing with the continent’s best.”
Since his appointment in early 2024, McCarthy has emphasised tactical cohesion and mental sharpness. His philosophy — high pressing, ball retention and quick transitions — has started to redefine Kenya’s approach.
“The focus is on discipline and decision-making,” he noted. “We’ve improved in fitness and mentality. Now I want to see how the young players adapt alongside the experienced core.”
The Turkey friendlies will give McCarthy a chance to test combinations and assess players.
Kibet’s call-up sparked waves of excitement across social media. Celta Vigo’s youth academy congratulated him on X, describing the midfielder as “a bright prospect for Kenyan football.”
Stars are expected to report to camp in early November.
Full Harambee Stars Squad – November FIFA Window
Goalkeepers: Byrne Omondi (Gor Mahia), Brian Bwire (Polokwane City, South Africa), Brian Opondo (Tusker)
Defenders: Vincent Harper (Walsall, England), Sylvester Owino (Gor Mahia), Alphonce Omija (Etoile du Sahel, Tunisia), Michael Kibwage (Gor Mahia), Ronney Onyango (Sogndal, Norway), Manzur Suleiman (Nairobi United), Baron Ochieng' (Zamalek, Egypt)
Midfielders: Alpha Onyango (Gor Mahia), Duke Abuya (Young Africans, Tanzania), Timothy Ouma (Lech Poznań, Poland), Marvin Nabwire (Kenya Police)
Forwards: Austin Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), William Lenkupae (VPS, Finland), Job Ochieng' (Real Sociedad, Spain), Boniface Muchiri (Ulinzi Stars), Adam Wilson (The New Saints, Wales), Aldrine Kibet (Celta Vigo, Spain), Ovella Ochieng' (Nairobi United), Jonah Ayunga (St Mirren, Scotland), Ryan Ogam (Wolfsberger, Austria), Lawrence Okoth (SJK Seinajoki, Finland)
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