'I had other places to go'- Victor Wanyama explains his return to Scotland

Victor Wanyama returns to Scotland Image source: Sky Sports

'I had other places to go'- Victor Wanyama explains his return to Scotland

Abigael Wafula 15:28 - 28.03.2025

Victor Wanyama opted for a return to Scotland, driven by familiar connections and a compelling vision for the future.

After his contract with CF Montreal expired on January 1, 2025, Victor Wanyama received a lot of lucrative deals but he chose to return to Europe, signing with Scottish club Dunfermline Athletic.

The move was strongly influenced by his former manager at Celtic, Neil Lennon, who is also new to the club, having taken over last week.

Victor Wanyama explained his strong bond with Neil Lennon, revealing that the Irish football manager greatly shaped his career and he owes it to him to help the Scottish club escape relegation.

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Speaking at a press conference after being unveiled, Victor Wanyama noted that he goes way back with Neil, who gave him a chance to prove himself at Celtic.

During his time there, Victor Wanyama won two Scottish Premiership titles, one Cup and also made some Champions League appearances.

“I spoke to the manager and as you know, the manager has done a lot in my career, has played a big part in my career. He asked me to come and help him out and I said why not? He has played a big part in my career and I said I will come down and give him a hand,” Victor Wanyama revealed.

The former CF Montreal defensive midfielder added that speaking to the owner of the club also unleashed something in him and immediately, he knew he wanted to return to Scotland.

Wanyama pointed out that the owner laid out a plan for him and the ambition and zeal to excel stood out, bringing out his eagerness to help.

Victor Wanyama disclosed that he had been approached by other several clubs but after Dunfermline Athletic reached out through his former manager, he thought it would be wise to work under a familiar territory.

“I also spoke to the owner, he is very ambitious when he told me what he wanted at the club and his ambitions, it was a no-brainer,” Victor Wanyama said.

“I said, ‘Okay, I’ll come and do it.’ When he phoned me and was very serious and wanted me to come down and help.

“I had other places to go but once Neil phoned me, then I couldn’t think of anything and even speaking to the owner and knowing the intentions he has about the club and his passion for the game inspired me to come and join in.”

Meanwhile, Victor Wanyama brings to the club his wealth of experience after playing for American side CF Montreal for four years.

He has his work cut out since Dunfermline is currently in ninth place (in a 10-club league). The club has six games to play until the end of the season as they look to get the club out of the relegation zone.

The former Harambee Stars captain will most likely play his first game on Saturday, March 29 against Ayr who are third-placed.