Absent-with-out-leave Austin Odhiambo breaks silence on KAA Gent situation as Gor Mahia hold breath

Absent-with-out-leave Austin Odhiambo breaks silence on KAA Gent situation as Gor Mahia hold breath

Mark Kinyanjui 06:00 - 23.07.2024

Odhiambo has broken the silence regarding his Gor Mahia future amidst interest from clubs abroad, including KAA Gent.

In the aftermath of the 2024 COSAFA Cup, Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo's name has been on the lips of many football scouts and clubs, both in Africa and Europe. 

His stellar performance in South Africa, where he netted twice in three matches and earned the man of the match accolade against Zimbabwe, has turned heads and amplified interest in his talents.

Odhiambo’s creative prowess and ability to influence games did not go unnoticed. Speaking to SportsBoom.com, Odhiambo shared his thoughts on the tournament and the surge of interest from top-tier clubs. 

"It didn’t come as a surprise for me as the matches were live and I feel I expressed myself well. It was a good tournament for me although I would have loved to see the team progress to the final and even win it. After our last game, more teams contacted me."

Before heading to South Africa, rumors swirled about a potential move to Belgian giants KAA Gent, a club with a history of recruiting Kenyan talent. 

Odhiambo’s exclusion from Gor Mahia’s squad for the CECAFA Kagame Cup, despite being fit, further fueled speculation about his imminent departure to Europe. While the club remains tight-lipped, insiders suggest the midfielder stayed behind to finalize his transfer.

Reflecting on his remarkable 2023-2024 season, where he tallied 12 goals and 13 assists, Odhiambo highlighted his role in securing Gor Mahia's 21st league title and making his senior national team debut. 

"It was the best season I have ever had. I enjoyed doing what I loved most, to be honest. I was a regular goal scorer and helped the team defend the league title with three matches to spare. I also played for the senior national team and registered an assist in the first game," he said.

Having missed a previous opportunity to join Swedish side Elfsborg in 2021, Odhiambo is now closer than ever to realizing his European dream.

 The interest from KAA Gent could be the breakthrough he has longed for, and the move would undoubtedly mark a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. With his eyes set on Europe, Odhiambo remains optimistic about his future. 

"I do not want to comment on why I didn’t travel to Tanzania for the Kagame Cup. The management is better placed to divulge more."

As Odhiambo stands on the cusp of a potentially life-changing move, the football world watches with bated breath. Whether he dons the KAA Gent jersey or another club's colors, one thing is certain: Austin Odhiambo's star is on the rise, and his journey is just beginning.