Kenya manager Benni McCarthy has named an expanded 38-man squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Eritrea and Guinea.
The Harambee Stars are already guaranteed a place at the tournament because Kenya will co-host the 2027 finals with Uganda and Tanzania. However, McCarthy plans to approach the qualifiers with the highest level of competitive intent as he continues to shape his squad.
The South African coach has included three new internationals in the selection, with Kevin Wangaya, Louis Millard and Javan Ochieng brought in to add freshness to the group.
Kenya’s matches against Eritrea and Guinea will give McCarthy the opportunity to assess a large pool of players while preparing the team for its role as a host nation. The three co-hosts have automatic qualification, but Kenya will still take part in the qualifying campaign.
The 38 players selected are:
Goalkeepers: Byrne Omondi, Faruk Shikalo, Ian Otieno, Brian Bwire, Caleb Kramer.
Defenders: Manzur Okwaro, Stanley Wilson, Abud Omar, Joseph Okumu, Amos Wanjala, Frank Odhiambo, Daniel Ayembe, Deon Woodman, Michael Kibagwe, Rooney Onyango, Paul Ochuoga, Hannif Wesonga.
Midfielders: Zak Vyner, Timothy Ouma, Kevin Wangaya, Chris Erambo, Duke Abuya, Marvin Nabwire, Austin Odhiambo, Zech Obiero, Will Lenkupae, Aldrine Kibet.
Forwards: Mohammed Bajaber, Sharif Musa, Ben Stanley, Job Ochieng, Adam Wilson, Javan Ochieng, Louis Millard, Michael Olunga, Ryan Ogam, Micah Obiero, Lawrence Okoth.
Wangaya, Millard and Ochieng are the new additions to the international group, while the squad also contains experienced forward Michael Olunga.
The selection covers five goalkeepers, 17 defenders, 10 midfielders and six forwards. McCarthy will use the upcoming fixtures to continue building a competitive Kenya side ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be staged across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
Although the results of the qualifying matches will not determine Kenya’s participation in the finals, the fixtures remain important for the development of the Harambee Stars under McCarthy. The team will face Eritrea and Guinea as the coach evaluates his options and works towards forming his preferred group.