Harambee Stars defender Brian Onyango departs Stellenbosch FC

Stellenbosch FC have announced the departure of experienced Kenyan Harambee Stars defender Brian Onyango, just one season after he joined the club.

The towering centre-back arrived at Stellies as a free agent at the beginning of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season, fresh off his stint with Mamelodi Sundowns.

Before his move to Stellenbosch, Onyango spent four successful seasons with the Brazilians, where he racked up 61 appearances and won multiple titles, including the prestigious 2023 African Football League (AFL). Despite his success at Sundowns, he struggled to secure a regular starting spot, leading to his release at the end of last season.

Onyango’s move to Stellenbosch was aimed at reviving his career and gaining consistent playing time in South Africa’s top flight. However, the Kenya defender had it tough at Stellies as he was up against strong contenders like Thabo Moloisane, Athenkosi Mcaba, and Ismael Toure.

Eventually, he managed only eight appearances across all competitions in the previous campaign.

“Stellenbosch Football Club can confirm that Brian Onyango has departed the club following the expiration of his contract,” Stellenbosch stated in a statement on Monday.

“Onyango joined Stellenbosch at the start of the 2024/25 campaign and made eight appearances across all competitions, helping the club reach the MTN8 final and qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup.”

The club also highlighted his international return: “During his time in the Cape Winelands, the towering defender also returned to the Kenya National Team for the first time in nearly two years to become just the third non-South African player to represent his country while on the books of Stellenbosch.”

Despite his brief tenure, Stellenbosch acknowledged Onyango’s positive impact, noting, “Despite the brevity of his stay with the Maroons, Onyango’s leadership and work ethic made him an influential figure in the dressing room and earned him a nomination for the 2024/25 SFC Sportsman of the Season award. Everyone at Stellenbosch FC would like to thank Brian for his service to the club and wish him well as he embarks on the next chapter of his career.”