Wanyama named UN-Habitat Goodwill Ambassador, opens up on Arsenal legend
Sports
By
Rodgers Eshitemi
| Jan 12, 2021
="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/sports/sports/2001351411/stars-skipper-wanyama-set-to-build-a-football-academy-in-kenya">Kenyan international Victor Wanyama And with Henry having influenced his decision to join Montreal on a three and half year deal from English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur in March 2020, the defensive midfielder who was yesterday unveiled as the UN-Habitat Goodwill Ambassador in Nairobi, revealed how the Frenchman is a great coach.
“I have got a good relationship with the manager (Thierry Henry). I’m enjoying working with him. He is a good coach and person both on and off the pitch. He is always willing to help you and that is why I feel he is a great coach,” Wanyama told Standard Sports yesterday. Kenya's Esports star Bilal clinches historic victory at African Championship in Nigeria UN General Assembly declares 2026 as int'l year of women farmers Harness nuclear science to quench thirst of water-starved populations Why AFC must sing a new song as they seek to restore lost glory About 420 families face eviction from disputed 63-acre prime land Why nostalgia is a dangerous thing at AFC Leopards Why Ingwe want to make 60 anniversary memorable Judge extends orders on Sh4.6 billion land as woman distances herself from invasion AFC Leopards 60: President Ruto urges Ingwe to adopt corporate model Asked about his new ambassadorial role, Wanyama, whose ="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/the-standard-insider/article/2001379756/victor-wanyama-academy-takes-shape">Victor Wanyama Foundation,< has been doing a lot of charity work in the informal settlement as well as supporting needy-bright students said his new role is “more important because it is something that I have been before.”
“I’m glad to have gotten this opportunity. I thank the UN for supporting me and the people in the ghetto. This is a great initiative that we are going to do together and hopefully make a big impact,” the footballer added. This is Wanyama’s third ambassadorial role in less than three years after serving as Safaricom Limited’s brand ambassador in 2017 and DSTV 2018 FIFA World Cup’s ambassador.
Though he was non-committal on his retirement plans, Wanyama is pleased with the progress on his multi-million academy project in Ekisumo village in Nambale constituency, Busia County.
“I don’t believe in retirement because in football there is no retirement. Even if you finish playing, there are a lot of things to do and you can stay on the same field for long. I know what my plans are and I have a lot of things to think about right now, but when time comes, I will let you know,” said Wanyama.
“Work in my academy in Busia is still ongoing and the people working there are doing a great job. I can’t tell when it will be finished but very soon we will have a world class academy with good facilities. My dream since childhood has been to one day give back to society and try to improve on what I didn’t have during my childhood. The biggest thing we lacked then was facilities, but I’m glad through this foundation we are doing it as we try to have the same system we see in Europe here.” Commenting on Michael Olunga’s much-publicized lucrative move from Japan topflight club Kashiwa Resyol to Qatari champions Al Duhail SC, Wanyama said the 2020 J1 League Most Valuable Player is mature enough to make the right decision.
“In football it is always difficult to try and advise someone who has played the game and knows what’s next in his move. But Olunga is a mature player and he knows what’s next for his career. All of us have ambitions and they cannot be the same. So, I’m supporting him in every step he is going to take and I wish him all the best in whatever move he is going to take,” said Wanyama.
Resyol have reportedly accepted a staggering Sh 806 million offer from Al Duhail.
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