Why Did Bajaber Pull Out of Kenya’s CHAN Squad?
Kenya’s preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) have been disrupted yet again, this time with the sudden exit of attacking midfielder Mohammed Bajaber. The Police FC star has officially completed a move to Tanzanian Premier League champions Simba SC, just five days before Kenya kicks off their CHAN campaign against DR Congo on August 3.
According to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), Bajaber has signed a two-year contract with Simba and is expected to join their squad immediately for pre-season preparations in Egypt. His transfer comes at a crucial moment, stripping Kenya of one of its most creative midfielders just as the tournament begins.
Who Is Replacing Bajaber in the Midfield?
The national team’s technical bench wasted no time in calling up a replacement. On Sunday night, Brian Michira was added to the squad in an attempt to plug the hole left by Bajaber’s departure. Michira’s entry adds a fresh dynamic to the midfield, but questions remain over whether the team can find cohesion in time.
Bajaber’s exit also follows weeks of speculation about his fitness. Head coach Benni McCarthy had previously defended keeping the midfielder in the lineup, stating that “Bajaber had been training individually and was nearing full match sharpness.” His departure now forces McCarthy to rework his tactical setup under tight timelines.
How Are Other Player Departures Affecting Kenya’s CHAN Campaign?
Bajaber becomes the third key player to leave the Harambee Stars camp in recent weeks. Forwards Emmanuel Osoro and Moses Shummah also exited earlier this month after securing contracts with Zambian Premier League clubs. The losses have sparked concern, especially as the national team gears up to face powerhouses like Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia in Group A.
Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to brew in camp. Sofapaka winger Edward Omondi and Tusker midfielder Erick Otieno were both seen in training sessions despite not being listed in the original squad, further fueling questions about the team’s cohesion and strategic direction.
Bajaber, who played a pivotal role in Kenya Police’s historic FKF Premier League title win and scored on his international debut against The Gambia, leaves big shoes to fill.
By Yockshard Enyendi
