Ryan Ogam on How He is Handling The Pressure of Being the ‘Next Michael Olunga’ After Completing European Transfer

Ryan Ogam has explained how he is handling the pressure of being the country's next lead striker after Benni McCarthy himself tipped him to become 'the next Michael Olunga'

Harambee Stars captain Ryan Ogam has explained how he is handling the pressure of becoming the country’s next lead striker as he prepares to complete a move to Austrian outfit Wolfsberger AC.

Ogam, who had a stellar African Nations Championships 2024 (CHAN) performance on home soil, which saw him net two goals for Kenya, was promoted to the main national team squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Gambia and Seychelles.

The former Rainbow FC man drew rave comparisons to Michael Olunga before the tournament, with Benni McCarthy himself claiming that he had the potential to become the next big thing for the country.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

“When I saw the interview, I think it was pressure for me but also inspiration because fitting in the boots of our skipper Michael Olunga is a big task,” Ogam told NTV.

“It is possible though to get better because working under a coach of Benni’s calibre, and considering what he achieved in his playing days as a striker, I would say he is helping me fulfil my potential in camp because it is a new role for me."

Ogam’s switch from midfield to attack was born out of necessity during an injury crisis at Tusker FC—and it proved transformative. 

Last season, he netted 15 times in 17 Kenyan Premier League appearances, rapidly establishing himself as one of the country’s premier goal-scorers.

A Dream Move to Austria Beckons

This move not only marks a personal milestone for Ogam but also cements his status as the first Kenyan ever to join Wolfsberger AC.

The club, which clinched its first-ever Austrian Cup in 2025, has a reputation for nurturing African talent and envisions Ogam as a long-term asset for its frontline.

At just 20 years old and standing at 1.87 m tall, Ogam brings a potent combination of pace, aerial ability, and devastating finishing—a profile that fits Wolfsberger’s tactical aspirations 

 He will link up with his new club immediately after the international break, following in the footsteps of a growing tradition of Kenyan players making their mark in Europe.

With a European adventure awaiting and a starring role in the national team on the horizon, Ryan Ogam is embracing both the expectations and opportunities of this pivotal moment in his career.