Kenya’s Harambee Stars have been dealt a significant blow just days before their African Nations Championship (CHAN) opener, following the departure of star midfielder Mohammed Bajaber.
Bajaber has signed a two-year deal with Tanzanian giants Simba SC, ruling him out of the CHAN tournament, which is reserved for players active in their home domestic leagues.
He is set to leave the national team camp to link up with Simba’s pre-season tour in Egypt.
According to media reports, Simba beat out fierce rivals Azam FC in a multi-million-shilling deal to land the 23-year-old playmaker.
His exit comes just five days before Kenya’s crucial Group B clash against two-time CHAN champions DR Congo, scheduled for August 3.
In response, Head Coach Benni McCarthy has called up Brian Michira as a last-minute replacement in midfield.
Bajaber is the latest player to leave the squad following the earlier departures of forwards Emmanuel Osoro and Moses Shummah, who recently completed moves to Zambian clubs.
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The dynamic midfielder enjoyed a stellar 2023/24 campaign, playing a key role in Kenya Police FC’s maiden Premier League title win.
His breakout season earned him a national team call-up, and he made an immediate impact by scoring on his debut in Kenya’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against The Gambia in March.