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Arnold Origi is back in the Harambee Stars set up as a goalkeeper trainer as the side prepares for the Mapinduzi Cup
When Arnold Origi last donned the gloves for Harambee Stars in November 2020 during their disappointing 2-1 loss to Comoros in the 2021 AFCON qualifiers, few would have predicted his return to the national fold four years later.
However, Origi’s comeback has taken an unexpected turn—not as a goalkeeper, but as a goalkeeper trainer coach.
For the 48-cap veteran, this transition into coaching wasn’t initially part of the plan, especially as he still feels “fit enough” to continue playing. Despite being 41 years old, Origi remains in excellent physical condition, a testament to his discipline and inspiration drawn from legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.
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09:31 - 29.12.2024
Harambee Stars caretaker coach Francis Kimanzi promises a tactical revolution ahead of Mapinduzi Cup
Harambee Stars will be participating in the Mapinduzi Cup, with coach Francis Kimanzi focused on preparation and team-building for CHAN.
Buffon, who retired at 45 after a storied career spanning nearly three decades, made over 1,100 professional appearances and holds the record for the most Serie A matches played.
Similarly, Origi has set remarkable standards in Kenyan football, becoming the only Kenyan goalkeeper to ply his trade in Europe for over 15 years.
Cousin to Liverpool icon and Belgium international Divock Origi, Arnold’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Starting his career at Tusker and Mathare United, he eventually moved to Europe, where he enjoyed a successful stint.
As recently as 2024, he was playing for Swedish side Östersunds FK, a club that once made headlines in the 2018/2019 UEFA Europa League by almost eliminating Arsenal during Arsène Wenger’s final season.
Although Östersunds now competes outside the Swedish top tier, Origi remained a respected figure within the squad, even making two league appearances in 2024. However, limited game time eventually pushed him toward a new role.
“My transition was more of a coincidence. My role model was Gianluigi Buffon, who played well into his 40s, and I wanted to follow his example. But after my last contract at FC Hord in Norway, it became difficult to find a good offer. That’s just how it is when you get older,” Origi shared.
“Fortunately, I had completed my UEFA coaching badges for goalkeepers. When I got the chance to train keepers at Östersund, I realised I loved it. That’s how my coaching journey began,” he added.
Now, Origi has brought his expertise back home. Under interim coach Francis Kimanzi, who is preparing the team for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), Origi has been appointed as the national team’s goalkeeper trainer. He is currently working with Farouk Shikalo (KCB FC), Byrne Omondi (Bandari FC), Sebastian Wekesa (Kariobangi Sharks), and Morgan Ambuka (Murang’a Seal).
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06:45 - 30.12.2024
Harambee Stars duo endure mixed evenings in Scotland
Both Jonah Ayunga and Richard Odada edured contrasting afternoons for their respective clubs in the Scottish Premier League on Sunday afternoon.
“Returning to the national team feels good because it’s always an honour to represent the country. I did it as a player, and now I’m back as a goalkeeper coach. It’s always nice to come home and give your best for Kenya,” Origi said.
Origi’s relationship with Kimanzi dates back to 2019, when the coach convinced him to return to international football after he had renounced his Kenyan citizenship to acquire Norwegian papers. The mutual respect between the two is evident.
“It feels great to work with Coach Kimanzi again. We share the same work ethic. I remember when he was the national team coach before—I’ve never worked harder in a national team setup than I did under him. He’s demanding, but that’s what we need to improve,” Origi explained.
Building toward CHAN success
Kimanzi and Origi are focusing on assembling a strong team ahead of CHAN, which will partly be hosted on Kenyan soil. As part of their preparations, Harambee Stars will compete in the Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar in January.
“Winning the Mapinduzi Cup would be great, but the bigger picture is building a strong team for CHAN. Playing on home soil brings extra pressure, and we need to get it right. Kenyans love football and are hungry for success,” Origi noted.
He also expressed optimism about the future of Kenyan football, referencing the U17 girls’ team’s historic qualification for the World Cup. “We saw it with the U17 girls qualifying for the World Cup—it shows what’s possible with the right support. I hope the fans will continue supporting us as we work towards building something special.”
Arnold Origi’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a deep love for football. As he transitions from player to coach, he remains an inspiration for Kenyan football and a vital part of Harambee Stars' plans for the future.
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