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Ouma, who is back with the Kenya national team Harambee Stars ahead of their double header against Cameroon, has explained why he cannot afford to be complacent following interest from major European clubs.
Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy Ouma has made it clear that despite his rapid rise in European football he cannot afford to rest on his laurels.
Following a standout season for Swedish club IF Elfsborg, Ouma's stock has risen significantly, with top clubs across Europe, including Premier League outfit Brentford, now keeping a close eye on the Kenyan international. Yet, Ouma remains focused on constant improvement and pushing himself to new heights.
Ouma’s breakthrough performances in both the Allsvenskan and the UEFA Europa League have attracted interest from major leagues, but the 21-year-old midfielder knows that consistency is key to maintaining his place at the top.
Currently with the Harambee Stars as they prepare for two crucial AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Cameroon, Ouma explained why complacency has no place in his plans.
“I had to be patient and bide my time,” Ouma said, reflecting on his rise to prominence at Elfsborg. “I was playing occasionally, but after the pathway to the first team became clearer, I became a regular. It is all about timing and then giving it your best shot when the chance comes.”
His European adventure has been filled with highs and lows. Ouma made headlines when he scored and assisted in Europa League clashes against AZ Alkmaar and Roma, further elevating his status.
However, he also faced disappointment, notably missing out on a move to French side AS Saint-Étienne after negotiations collapsed. Despite this, Ouma’s determination never wavered, and his persistence eventually paid off.
“There was a time when I wasn’t getting into the national team as well, so I had to be patient and decided that the moment I got one, I would take it. I got it and put it on the other side,” Ouma shared, emphasizing his resilience in the face of challenges.
“I am still pushing because there are good players here and good ones there as well. I have to give my best. There is no time to rest because there is someone in the stands who also wants that chance.”
Ouma’s ambition is clearly matched by his performances on the pitch. Elfsborg recently turned down a SEK 60 million (approximately Ksh 679 million) offer for the midfielder during the last transfer window, signaling the Swedish club’s desire to hold onto their star player.
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15:37 - 06.10.2024
Tottenham Hotspur lead Premier League chase for Harambee Stars midfield prodigy Timothy Ouma
Tottenham Hotspur scouts watched Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy Ouma during Elfsborg's Europa League clash, signaling potential transfer interest.
Interest from clubs like Brentford and Serie A’s Empoli has added to the speculation surrounding his future, but for now, Ouma is fully focused on his current responsibilities.
While his long-term future at Elfsborg remains uncertain, Ouma is eager to make an impact for the Harambee Stars in their upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Cameroon. The midfielder, who has already earned six caps for his country, is determined to help Kenya secure a victory in the double-header.
“It is a good thing to have been called up to the national team. We are back to business, and we hope that we will be able to deliver,” Ouma said confidently. “I believe we are going to do well, and victory is almost a certainty over the two coming games.”
Ouma’s current contract with Elfsborg runs until 2026, meaning the Swedish club holds considerable leverage when it comes to his future.
However, with growing interest from Premier League sides Brentford and Luton Town, the club may reconsider its stance in future transfer windows. For Ouma, though, the focus remains on continuous development and giving his all, whether for club or country.
“There is no time to rest,” he reiterated, aware of the competition he faces. With such a strong mentality, Ouma is well-positioned to reach even greater heights in his career, and as he prepares for the crucial AFCON qualifiers, it is clear that his hunger for success is far from satisfied.
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