Now Reading: From Gor Mahia Youth to Harambee Stars: Bryton Onyona’s Shock Maiden Call-Up for National Duty
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From Gor Mahia Youth to Harambee Stars: Bryton Onyona’s Shock Maiden Call-Up for National Duty
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From Gor Mahia Youth to Harambee Stars: Bryton Onyona’s Shock Maiden Call-Up for National Duty
Bryton Onyona, the 20-year-old left-back for Gor Mahia FC, has captured the spotlight following his maiden call-up to the senior national team, the Harambee Stars. The selection, made by coach Benni McCarthy, has left the youngster in genuine disbelief.
Onyona’s rapid ascent from the Gor Mahia Youth side to the pinnacle of Kenyan football comes ahead of crucial friendly matches this month. His reaction echoed the surprise across the local football fraternity:
“I did not expect it to happen this soon.”
This unexpected opportunity places Onyona among a talented cohort of players looking to make their mark on the international stage.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways: Bryton Onyona’s Harambee Stars Debut
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player Age | 20 years old |
| Current Club | Gor Mahia FC (Senior team) |
| Primary Position | Left-back, also versatile enough to play right-back or midfield |
| Nature of Call-Up | Maiden full senior national team call-up |
| Coach | Benni McCarthy |
| Friendly Fixtures | vs. Equatorial Guinea and vs. Senegal in Turkey (November window) |
| Recent Club Result | Gor Mahia beat Kenya Police FC 2-0 at Nyayo Stadium |
The Moment: Disbelief and Sleepless Excitement
Onyona’s national team inclusion was confirmed in dramatic fashion, illustrating the spontaneous nature of his selection. Having just finished a training session, he was on an errand—to buy new trainers—when his teammate alerted him that his number was being forwarded to a national team representative. Moments later, the team manager called to confirm his selection.
The news was so overwhelming that it upended his plans for rest:
“I did not take the nap I had intended …” he admitted.
His emotional reaction underlines the significance this call-up holds.
Bryton Onyona: The Rapid Rise of the ‘European-Type’ Youngster
Nicknamed by some as the “European-type” youngster, Onyona’s style of play and rapid progression have drawn attention. Primarily a left-back, his versatility allows him to slot in as a right-back or in midfield.
His journey began at grassroots level and progressed quickly:
- He played in the Chapa Dimba na Safaricom tournament and was named Kisumu County MVP.
- He toured Spain with the All-Stars team in December 2024.
- He was promoted to the Gor Mahia senior team this year, impressing with his performances.
National Stage and 2027 AFCON Ambitions
Onyona’s call-up places him under the guidance of coach Benni McCarthy and positions him for major exposure. The national squad heads for friendlies in Turkey:
- vs. Equatorial Guinea on November 14, 2025.
- vs. Senegal on November 18, 2025.
He hopes to seize this platform to impress and force his way into the coach’s plan for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027. For a 20-year-old who admitted he “did not expect it to happen this soon,” the prospect of establishing himself in the national side is a powerful motivator.
Club Commitments: Sirkal Derby
Onyona’s club duties remain prominent. Gor Mahia achieved a convincing 2-0 victory over Kenya Police FC at Nyayo Stadium.
This win not only boosted the club’s standing but offered Onyona further evidence of his rising form—earning recognition such as a place in the “Team of the Week” for Round 8.
Final Thoughts
In summation, Bryton Onyona’s call-up is more than just an opportunity—it is validation of his rapid trajectory and rising performance. His sleepless excitement reflects the gravity of the moment: from Chapa Dimba MVP to potential national team regular.
At just 20 years old, he stands among the most exciting defensive prospects to emerge from Gor Mahia in recent times. His sudden ascent is like a shooting star — unexpected, bright, and promising a spectacular display on the international stage.
