Victor Wanyama Reveals Harsh Reality of European Football: “There’s No Time for You”

The Harambee Stars icon has shared an honest take on life in Europe, noting that true friendships are hard to come by while reflecting on the unique bond he experienced at Celtic.

Former Celtic midfielder Victor Wanyama has spoken candidly about the support he enjoyed from fans during his time in Scotland, while also warning Kenyan players about the realities that come with high-profile moves to European clubs.

After making his move to Europe in 2007, Wanyama built a reputation as a commanding defensive midfielder. His time at Celtic proved especially successful, as he helped the club secure two league titles and scored a memorable Champions League goal against Barcelona.

In 2013, he broke new ground by becoming the first Kenyan to feature in the English Premier League after signing for Southampton. He later joined Tottenham Hotspur, where he was part of the squad that reached the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.

Following a four-year spell in Major League Soccer with CF Montréal, Wanyama returned to Europe in early 2025, linking up with Scottish side Dunfermline Athletic.

“Football Is Not Built on Friendships” – Wanyama Opens Up

Speaking in an interview with the East African, Wanyama offered a frank assessment of relationships in professional football, highlighting how quickly circumstances can change and why family remains essential.

“Many people assume football helps you build lasting friendships, but that is not always the case,” he explained.

“You can be settled in one team today and transferred the next moment. In Europe especially, everyone is focused on their own journey. No one really has time for you, and that is when you realise how important family is, because they are the ones who stay.”

His remarks underline the often-overlooked emotional side of playing abroad, where constant transfers and competition can make it difficult to form deep personal connections.

Celtic Stands Out as a Special Chapter

Despite his overall experience, Wanyama admitted that his time at Celtic felt different. He described the connection he built with the club’s supporters as unmatched throughout his career.

The Kenyan midfielder became a fan favourite at Parkhead, producing standout performances and unforgettable moments, including his famous goal in the Champions League victory over Barcelona.

Signed in 2011 by then-manager Neil Lennon from Belgian side Beerschot, Wanyama quickly established himself as a dominant presence in midfield.

“Celtic is where I felt the most love,” he said. “The fans there really embraced me, and it was an incredible experience I will always remember.”

He added that while he was treated well across all the European clubs he represented, the affection he received in Scotland stood above the rest.

Later Career and Current Situation

After several demanding seasons in England’s top flight, recurring injuries prompted Wanyama to move to MLS with CF Montréal before he turned 30.

He later reunited briefly with Neil Lennon at Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Championship, although the stint did not go as planned.

At present, the former Harambee Stars captain is without a club. He was recently seen in action during the March international break and also featured in a legends match, representing a Southampton side against Manchester United legends.