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Kelvin Wangaya's youth coach has explained the qualities about the Kenya U-20 star's talent that will take him far, comparing his style of play to Manchester City's Rodri.
As Kenya U-20’s Kelvin Wangaya’s football journey continues to gather momentum, his former coach at Ligi Ndogo academy, Iddi Badi, has tipped the 18-year-old midfielder to one day grace the ranks of Manchester City, likening his playing style to that of City’s midfield maestro, Rodri.
Wangaya, currently plying his trade at FK Apolonia, has been instrumental in Kenya’s qualification for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to be held in Ivory Coast later this year.
His standout performances during the CECAFA Region qualifiers in Tanzania, where he netted four goals, showcased his immense potential. Although Kenya fell 2-1 to hosts Tanzania in the final, their qualification marked a significant milestone for Wangaya and the team.
Speaking to TV 47, Wangaya revealed his aspirations:"Everybody has to start somewhere to get anywhere, right? I think I can one day play for Manchester United. That’s my dream club."
He added:"I also see myself playing for Barcelona. There is Ajax too, which has excellent infrastructure. I followed them as a boy, so those three clubs are my dream destinations."
Wangaya’s journey began at Ligi Ndogo academy, where he joined at the tender age of nine under the guidance of coach Iddi Badi.
According to Badi, Wangaya’s discipline, hunger for improvement, and extra effort after training have been key factors in his rise:
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"He has that urge and willingness to want more. Even when others aren’t around, he’ll seek extra sessions to better himself. That’s what sets him apart."
Badi highlighted Wangaya’s time at the FKF School of Excellence and the 2019 U-15 CECAFA Championships as pivotal in honing his skills
At the school of excellence, he improved crucial aspects of his game, like playing on the half-turn, scanning the pitch before receiving the ball, carrying it forward, and delivering line-breaking passes. These attributes make him a proper midfield general.
Recalling a memorable moment for the U-15 national side back in 2019, where the teenager was named player of the tournament at the CECAFA championships in Eritrea, Badi described a recent reaction to Wangaya’s flair
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"There was a moment where he nonchalantly dribbled past the goalkeeper and scored. His free-kick technique, something he has worked on tirelessly, is another testament to his consistency."
While Wangaya dreams of donning Manchester United’s iconic red jersey, his former coach sees a future for him in Manchester City’s blue:
"For the kind of football he plays, he would suit City’s style. His ability to control the midfield, much like Rodri, makes him an ideal fit for their system."
Despite the praise, Badi emphasises the importance of patience and gradual progression.
"He’s still 18, so we won’t rush. Playing for the national team is already a big plus. My advice to him is to listen to his coaches, stick to the plan, and keep pushing himself. With his attitude and talent, the sky is the limit."
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