Tusker FC has bid an emotional goodbye to their prolific striker Ryan Ogam, who has completed a multi-million transfer to Austrian Bundesliga side Wolfsberger AC.
Ogam, just 21, made a final stop at the club's Ruaraka Grounds this week, briefly stepping away briefly from national team duty to say farewell to teammates and staff before heading to Austria after the international break.
The move crowns a whirlwind rise for the Umoja-born forward, who lit up the Kenyan Premier League last season with a stunning 15 goals in only 13 appearances.
Ogam's ruthless finishing and explosive pace made him a fan favourite and attracted suitors across Europe, with Wolfsberger ultimately winning the race for his signature.
Sources close to the deal indicate his release clause was worth millions.
Football clearly runs in Ogam's blood. He is the son of former Gor Mahia midfielder David Rabuok, who turned out for the league giants in the 2007/08 season.
Growing up in Umoja, Ogam was raised in a football-obsessed household, a foundation that has shaped his meteoric rise from estate kick-abouts to the European stage.
In a heartfelt farewell, the young striker expressed gratitude to Tusker fans, teammates and coaches for their role in his journey.
"As I prepare for the next chapter of my career, I want to appreciate every one of you-from the fans who cheered us on, to my fellow players who pushed me daily, and the technical bench that always demanded the best from me. While I'm excited about what lies ahead, the camaraderie, challenges and victories here will always remain with me," he said.
Tusker management hailed Ogam's professionalism, commitment and hunger for success, noting that his legacy will live on long after his departure.
For Wolfsberger AC, the signing represents a fresh attacking option as they continue to compete in Austria's top flight. For Ogam, it is the ultimate opportunity to test himself against European defenders and follow in the footsteps of Kenyan trailblazers who have made their mark abroad.
For Tusker supporters, the farewell is bittersweet-the loss of a talismanic striker, yet the pride of seeing one of their own take the leap to the big stage.
