Football

Mohammed Kheri: Ex-Harambee Stars Coach concerned about current players' passion, calls for grassroots development

Renowned former Harambee Stars coach Mohammed Kheri calls for development of grassroots football. (Photo: Chris Omollo Nation and KARIM JAAFAR/AFP)

By Sports Reporter | Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Kheri advocates for the active involvement of all stakeholders, including veteran players and coaches, in football administration. He stresses the value of experience, recommending that leaders seek advice from seasoned individuals without financial constraints.

Renowned former Harambee Stars coach, Mohammed Kheri, has voiced his apprehensions regarding the current crop of players, highlighting a perceived wane in their commitment and passion for representing the national team.

Kheri, who led the Harambee Stars in the 1990s, attributes this shift to the growing influence of financial considerations in the global sports arena.

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In a recent statement, Kheri lamented the apparent transformation from an era where players fought fervently for the flag to a contemporary focus primarily centered on financial gains.

"In our time, players used to fight for the flag, but these days, players are looking for money. In the past, there was a spirit to fight on the field, but nowadays there is none," he is quoted on Citizen Digital.

Calling upon the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to take action, Kheri urged a renewed emphasis on grassroots talent development. He advocates for establishing age-group teams nationwide, underscoring the importance of a holistic youth development program.

Kheri proposes a comprehensive approach, suggesting the identification of young talents nationwide and organising special competitions during school breaks to provide exposure.

Addressing a deficiency in Kenya's youth football infrastructure, Kheri highlighted missed opportunities in regional youth events and international competitions such as the Gothia Cup. He believes participation in these tournaments could significantly enhance players' skills and readiness for major championships like the recent Cecafa youth championships.

In a broader call for collaboration, Kheri advocates for the active involvement of all stakeholders, including veteran players and coaches, in football administration. He stresses the value of experience, recommending that leaders seek advice from seasoned individuals without financial constraints.