Victor Wanyama: Denis Onyango rekindles East Africa rivalry in thanks message

Ugandan legend Denis Onyango has described retired Kenyan midfielder Victor Wanyama as a ‘leader on the pitch’ after he took the decision to hang his boots.

Wanyama made the announcement in a heartfelt message on social media on Friday, saying he had lived his dream and thanking those who supported him throughout his journey.

My Kenyan brother, @VictorWanyama, it was a pleasure playing against you in those East African [Uganda 🇺🇬 Vs Kenya 🇰🇪] derbies always.

You gave everything. Every sprint, every goal, every moment of brilliance told a story of passion, resilience, and unwavering dedication. You… pic.twitter.com/rdyXnlmDjU

— Dennis Onyango 🇺🇬 (@masindeonyango) April 6, 2026

“Today I announce my retirement from football,” explained Wanyama via a social media statement on Friday.

“Four different countries. Six different clubs. A boy from Muthurwa with a big dream, carrying a nation’s pride every time I stepped onto the pitch.

“To my family, friends, agent, the fans, and the coaching staff that helped me throughout my career. Thank you for walking this journey with me.”

Here is the message from Onyango;

My brother, Victor Wanyama, it was a pleasure playing against you in those East African [Uganda versus Kenya] derbies always.

You gave everything. Every sprint, every goal, every moment of brilliance told a story of passion, resilience, and unwavering dedication. You weren’t just a player—you were an inspiration. A leader on the pitch, a role model beyond it.

You carried the hopes of fans, lifted teammates in difficult times, and gave us memories that will live forever. Football may say goodbye to you as a player, but your legacy will echo in every stadium, every young dreamer, and every heart you’ve touched.

“Thank you for the magic. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for the game.”

Wanyama became the first-ever Kenyan player to score in the Champions League when he scored the first goal in Celtic’s 2-1 win over Barcelona in 2012.

In 2013, Wanyama moved to Premier League club Southampton for £12.5 million, making him the most expensive player sold by a Scottish club at the time, surpassing the £9.5 million Russian club Spartak Moscow paid for Aiden McGeady in 2010.