Wangaya Wins April Award and Sends Benni McCarthy an AFCON 2027 Reminder

Kevin Wangaya is talking through his football. And the message is aimed squarely at the Harambee Stars dugout.

The 20-year-old Nairobi United midfielder won the SportPesa Premier League Player of the Month award for April — six goal contributions in the month, three goals and two assists, including a role in a 4-2 comeback win over Murang’a Seal. He picks up Ksh50,000 and a customised trophy. More importantly, he stays in the conversation.

Wangaya already starred for Kenya at the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations. He knows what the senior squad looks like from the outside. With AFCON 2027 coming to East Africa, every domestic standout performance is an audition.

“I’m really honoured to win this award,” he said. “Seeing Aroko win it earlier in the season was a big motivation — it showed what’s possible.”

He’s the second youngest player to claim the monthly award this season, behind 17-year-old Humphrey Aroko in February. Benni McCarthy is watching. Wangaya is making sure of it