Harambee Stars Defender Explains Why Gor Mahia Is the Key to National Team and Overseas Careers

Kenyan international and former Gor Mahia stalwart Musa Mohammed has offered insight into why the 21-time FKF Premier League champions remain the ultimate springboard for local players aspiring to play for the national team and pursue professional careers abroad.

The veteran defender, who served Gor Mahia for nearly nine seasons and earned regular call-ups to the Harambee Stars during his tenure, reflected on his own journey and the club’s impact on nurturing elite football talent in Kenya.

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“I thank God so much because it is every player’s dream to kickstart their career at a team like Gor,” Musa shared on a recent episode of the Tiki Taka Show.

“Gor is a big team and to get such an opportunity, one should be grateful. It is a stepping stone for everyone. When you play for Gor, your chances of getting selected for the national team are very high and going abroad as well.”

Musa’s claims are not without basis. Gor Mahia's track record in producing national team regulars is well documented, and their prominence in domestic and regional competitions has helped spotlight emerging players.

The likes of Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga crafted his trade with the record-Kenyan champions before making waves in the international scenes with clubs like Al Duhail and LaLiga side Girona.

The club's success, both on and off the pitch, has made it a fertile ground for scouting by both national team selectors and international clubs.

The regular participation in continental competitions such as the CAF Confederation Cup and Champions League also ensures that Gor players consistently gain exposure to higher levels of football.

“Because of what Gor has achieved, the attention the club gets from scouts and coaches is unmatched locally,” Musa added.

Musa’s sentiment found recent validation when Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy named five Gor Mahia players in his squad for the recent two-legged international friendlies.

The inclusion of Austin Odhiambo, Alpha Onyango, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, and Ben Stanley marked the highest representation from any single club.

This notable selection underscores Gor Mahia's influence on the national setup and further affirms the club’s reputation as a critical stepping stone for local players with ambitions beyond Kenya’s borders.

As Harambee Stars continue their rebuild under McCarthy, it’s evident that the road to the national team and possibly Europe or beyond may still run firmly through the corridors of Gor Mahia