Kenyans are calling on top English football clubs to bring their preseason friendlies to the country, citing the recent completion of world-class stadiums as a game-changer for sports tourism and local fan engagement.
The conversation was sparked on social media following the upgrade of key sports infrastructure, including the refurbished Kasarani Stadium and the soon-to-be-completed Talanta Sports Complex in Nairobi.
One user, Collins (@ColloTM_McArum), tweeted: “@ChelseaFC Admin, it’s high time you consider holding those preseason games in Africa. You have a natural following here. Consider Nairobi, Kenya as your first destination. Kasarani and Talanta Stadium can feel the Cold Palmer moments.”
Echoing the sentiment, another fan, Maxwel Koech, added: “Not only Chelsea, we want Chelsea vs Manchester United to be played here in Kenya.”
The online push comes amid growing excitement over Kenya’s readiness to host major international fixtures, bolstered by recent investments in sports infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya is set to co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
With the country aiming to establish itself as a regional sporting hub, fans hope global clubs will take notice and consider East Africa in their global tour plans.