Amidst uncertainty and criticism, Kenya's football future hangs in the balance as Engin Firat's tenure as head coach faces scrutiny following the team's failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The future of Harambee Stars' head coach Engin Firat has become increasingly uncertain following Kenya's unsuccessful bid for a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). As the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) elections approach in early December, Firat's position as head coach will be evaluated, although there is already heightened speculation surrounding his potential exit.
Kenya's hopes of qualifying for AFCON were crushed when they ended up third in Group J of the qualifiers, a disappointing outcome that placed them behind Cameroon and Zimbabwe, who claimed the top two positions. Despite being in a relatively favorable group, Firat's squad managed to secure only one win—against Namibia—and drew three times. Two defeats at the hands of Cameroon, including a sobering 4-1 loss in Yaoundé, underscored the significant disparity in quality between Kenya and the elite teams of African football.
The inability to qualify for AFCON prompted widespread criticism, with many attributing the blame to Firat. Elijah Onsika, a former striker for the Harambee Stars, stood out as one of the most outspoken critics, calling for the Turkish coach’s removal. 'Firat has let us down,' Onsika stated. 'The longer FKF delays, the harder it becomes for the nation to achieve positive outcomes. It’s time for a change.'
In response to the demand for Firat's removal, the government has made its position clear. Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Kipchumba Murkomen, noted that the Ministry of Sports does not have the authority to terminate the coach directly, stressing that such decisions rest with the FKF. Nevertheless, Murkomen recognized that Firat's inability to secure qualification for the continental tournament would likely result in his exit, with the Ministry considering its options based on the agreement between the FKF and the coach, which contains clauses related to AFCON qualification.
At this moment, the FKF is in a state of uncertainty, as it prepares for elections that will shape its future leadership. Inside sources have indicated that any decisions regarding Firat's future will only be made after the elections, with the current administration opting to focus on the electoral process first. “We will address the situation concerning Firat after the elections,” stated an insider, noting that the federation is not yet ready to make firm decisions.
The current administration's management of Firat's situation has been further complicated by financial difficulties. The coach is said to be owed 11 months' worth of salary arrears, which makes the choice to part ways more sensitive. "This isn’t an easy decision," the source stated. "It requires careful management, especially considering the financial factors at play."
Firat has voiced his concerns about the current state of Kenyan football, highlighting the inadequate infrastructure and lack of support that have impeded the national team's development. 'We lack fans, we lack support, and we do not have adequate facilities,' Firat remarked after the team's last qualification matches. 'Unless we tackle these essential problems, neither coaches nor players will be able to change the circumstances. We must face the reality of Kenyan football.'
Firat's time as head coach has certainly not been easy. Since taking on the role in 2021, he has managed the team in 23 matches, recording seven wins, seven draws, and nine losses. His initial months in the position were characterized by several significant defeats, including a heavy 5-0 loss to Mali during the World Cup qualifiers. Nevertheless, he did guide Kenya to their first international trophy—a victory in the Four Nations tournament in 2022, where they overcame Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Seychelles.
Despite these positive moments, the overall performance has been uneven. Kenya faced difficulties in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, managing to secure only two points from their initial three games. A defeat against Cameroon in the AFCON qualifiers, coupled with a draw against Zimbabwe, ultimately dashed their hopes of competing in Morocco next year. Additionally, their inability to overcome South Sudan in the CHAN qualifiers, especially as the host nation, further tainted Firat’s tenure.
As the Kenyan football community anticipates the FKF elections and the forthcoming decision on Firat's future, the identity of the nation's football stands at a critical juncture. The issues confronting the Harambee Stars extend beyond mere tactics or management; they are fundamentally structural. The team's difficulties, ranging from inadequate facilities to insufficient fan support, reflect a more profound crisis within Kenyan football.
If Firat does leave, it could provide a new beginning for the national team; however, the fundamental problems will persist unless they are tackled thoroughly. Whether this involves hiring a new coach, reforming the federation, or increasing investment in grassroots football, advancing will necessitate a joint effort from all involved parties.
At this moment, attention is centered on the forthcoming elections, as the future of Kenyan football hangs in the balance. The upcoming weeks will be critical in determining the direction of the Harambee Stars, and the choices made during the FKF elections could influence whether the team will meet future challenges or continue to face difficulties on the international platform.
Kenyan football stands at a critical juncture, as the results of the FKF elections will play a significant role in determining the future of both Engin Firat and the Harambee Stars. As supporters and analysts contemplate the missed chance at AFCON qualification, the pressing question will be whether the federation can come together to develop a strategy that tackles the fundamental issues affecting the sport in Kenya. With time running out, the upcoming decisions will be vital for the country's footballing ambitions.
