This archive report was first published on 15 July 2019.
On July 15, 2019, English news outlet Daily Mail reported that Victor Wanyama had put off a proposed move abroad to ensure he qualified for his British passport after residing in the United Kingdom for over six years.
With the passport, Wanyama will hold dual citizenship, which is acceptable in Kenya's laws. However, his situation at Tottenham Hotspurs is far from certain.
Wanyama, 28, spent a significant part of last season on the sidelines due to a knee injury. Even after recovery, he appeared to be a 'surplus requirement' to the North London club.
Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino preferred playing English midfielders Eric Dier and Harry Winks, often benching Wanyama in crucial matches.
The arrival of Tanguy Ndombele from Olympique Lyon has added to Wanyama's woes. Ndombele, a 22-year-old French international, signed a six-year contract with Spurs for a club-record deal of £65m.
Ndombele made his France debut against Iceland on October 11, 2018, and played a key role for Olympique Lyon last season, featuring in 34 Ligue 1 matches and making seven assists.
"He's thoughtful and intelligent. With the ball, to make the best use of it, he takes in information before anyone else to make the right choice," Olympique Lyon coach Bruno Génésio said last season.
At 22, Ndombele has advanced to a complete midfielder with a caliber ineligible for the sidelines. Wanyama will need to fight harder to earn a first-team selection.
