Mohamed Bajaber leaves Harambee Stars camp after sealing move to Simba SC.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars have been dealt another major blow ahead of the 2024 CHAN tournament after star midfielder Mohamed Bajaber exited the team’s camp to finalise a deal with Simba SC.
Bajaber, 23, signed a two-year contract with the Tanzanian Premier League side and is set to link up with their squad in Egypt for pre-season training. The move was confirmed by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) in a statement, wishing him success in his club journey.
“Bajaber’s move is a significant opportunity for his career, and we wish him all the best at Simba,” FKF said.
Bajaber’s departure marks the third exit from the CHAN training squad this month. Earlier, Emmanuel Osoro and Moses Shummah had also left to sign deals in Zambia.
These back-to-back departures have sparked worry among fans and football analysts, especially with Kenya set to take on DR Congo in a high-stakes clash this weekend at Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The timing of Bajaber’s exit has drawn mixed reactions on social media. While many supporters congratulated him for joining one of East Africa’s most successful clubs, others felt disappointed that he abandoned the national team at a critical moment.
“Happy for Bajaber, but he could have waited till after CHAN. Kenya needs him more right now,” posted a concerned fan on X.
With only days left before kick-off, head coach Benni McCarthy is now forced to make last-minute adjustments to his midfield lineup. Bajaber was viewed as a creative engine in the squad, and his exit now means other players will have to step up quickly.
Despite the setback, the FKF has called for calm and urged fans to rally behind the team.
“This is a chance for other players to step up. We’re confident in our squad depth,” a federation official noted.
The 2024 CHAN edition is not just a tournament but also a rehearsal ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will co-host.
Harambee Stars are grouped alongside Rwanda, South Sudan, and DR Congo. Their first match is on Saturday, August 3, at Kasarani Stadium.
