This archive report was first published on 23 May 2020.
Wycliffe Otieno Onyango, a seasoned defender, has been a key player for Nairobi City Stars in the Kenyan Premier League since mid-2019. In a recent interview with Nairobi News, he reflected on his journey from Daima Primary School to the top-tier league, discussing his formative steps, partnerships, and future aspirations.
After completing his secondary education at Upper Hill High School, Onyango joined Thola Glass FC/Kenya School of Law in the second tier before moving to Nairobi Stima. He then landed at Kariobangi Sharks in 2015, where he played a crucial role in the team's promotion to the KPL in 2016.
However, an injury-enforced break forced Onyango to sit out for a season, during which he underwent rehabilitation. Thankfully, City Stars had faith in him and gave him an opportunity to join the team in mid-2019, despite not being at 100% fitness.
Onyango's partnership with Abdallah Salim has been a key factor in City Stars' success, with the two defenders forming a formidable defensive unit. He credits their good relationship and ability to learn from each other as the key to their success.
When asked about his future plans, Onyango expressed his desire to stay at City Stars for the foreseeable future, citing the progress of the project and his own growth as reasons for his extension. He also revealed his aspirations to become a sports news anchor after retirement, highlighting his eloquence and ability to communicate effectively as key strengths.
Throughout the interview, Onyango demonstrated his adaptability and willingness to learn, crediting his coaches for positively shaping his football career. He also named Meddie Kagere and Jacques Tuyisenge as strikers he never wanted to face in a one-on-one situation, citing their relentless pressing and ability to make runs into space.
