Ismail Athuman opens up on his absence from Harambee Stars, past struggles and why he’s ready for a national team return.
Often when a player drifts away from international football, it is difficult for them to regain their place.
However, for Ismail Athuman Gonzalez, the dream of returning to the Kenyan national team, the Harambee Stars, is more alive than ever.
The Spanish-born defender, whose father hails from Kenya, has had a tumultuous yet inspiring journey that has taken him from La Liga academies to the depths of Spanish lower-tier football. But now, with renewed motivation and a burning desire to contribute, he is ready to don the Kenyan jersey again.
Former Manchester United first-team coach Benni McCarthy has been reported to be the leading contender for the Harambee Stars job but a veteran tactician is against it.
Athuman’s football story is one of perseverance. Born in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria in 1995, he grew up immersed in the game, developing as a defender at UD Las Palmas, one of Spain’s most recognized football academies.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Athletics News in Kenya from Pulse Sports.
His early years saw him play for various clubs such as Club Polideportivo Cacereño, Granada “B,” and Fuenlabrada. Despite setbacks, he fought his way back to UD Las Palmas, where he achieved his dream of making a Segunda División debut in December 2020.
However, his time at Las Palmas was short-lived. A single mistake against Rayo Vallecano proved costly, leading to limited opportunities under coach Pepe Mel.
“I never felt inferior to the other defenders,” Athuman recalls as per Nation.
“But after that mistake, everything changed, and I barely got a chance to prove myself again.”
)
Harambee Stars may finally get to host international matches on home soil following positive developments over the renovations of Kasarani Stadium.
It was a moment that dented his career trajectory, and soon, he found himself in the depths of Spanish football, moving to lower-tier clubs like Real Murcia, Sabadell FC, and Águilas FC before joining AD Mérida in Spain’s third tier.
Despite these setbacks, Athuman has never lost sight of his love for football and his aspirations for the Harambee Stars. His international journey with Kenya began in June 2016, when he made his debut against Congo in a 2017 AFCON qualifier.
He later became a crucial part of the squad that secured a historic qualification for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), playing every minute of the qualification campaign. One of the standout moments of his international career came in Kenya’s stunning 1-0 victory over Ghana, a result that sealed their Afcon berth for the first time in over a decade.
However, when the tournament finally arrived, his fortunes took an unexpected turn. Despite being a key figure in the qualification, coach Sébastien Migné benched him throughout the Afcon tournament, a decision that left Athuman frustrated and disillusioned.
“I played every minute of the qualification campaign, but when we got to the finals, I was suddenly not in the plans. It was hard to understand,” he says.
)
Harambee Stars midfielder Chrispine Erambo has been named Tusker player of the month for the month of February.
The experience left a lasting impact, and when combined with personal struggles and club uncertainties, he drifted away from international football.
Now, things have changed. With McDonald Mariga assuming the role of Vice President of the Football Kenya Federation, Athuman sees a new opportunity.
He acknowledges that Mariga has brought fresh ideas and a sincere commitment to the development of the national team. If Mariga were to call him up, he would be more than willing to return to the squad, as he believes in his vision for Kenyan football.
His passion for Harambee Stars extends beyond just playing as he envisions a future where he can contribute to Kenyan football beyond the pitch. He dreams of setting up an academy, modernizing football structures, and giving back to the country that has embraced him.
“Kenya has always shown me love, and I feel like I owe the country something in return. I want to help in any way I can,” Athuman affirms. His deep-rooted connection to Kenya makes him eager to be part of the national football project once again.
)
Yanga striker Stephane Azi Ki’s imminent wedding to Tanzanian socialite Hamisa Mobetto has divided opinion among fans, but how much does he earn?
With Kenya currently in a rebuilding phase, his experience and leadership could prove invaluable. Having played in competitive European leagues, his defensive skills, composure, and tactical awareness would be assets for the Harambee Stars. Furthermore, his determination to prove himself once again makes him an ideal candidate for the squad.
Athuman acknowledges that his recent months have been challenging. After being without a team for a period, he turned down several offers in hopes of securing a better deal.
This period of uncertainty took a toll on him mentally, but signing with AD Mérida has reignited his passion. He has found a supportive team environment, regained his enthusiasm, and is once again playing regularly.
Kenyan football stands to gain significantly from his return. With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and upcoming Afcon campaigns on the horizon, the team needs experienced and dedicated players. His leadership and resilience could provide much-needed stability in the defense and inspire younger players within the squad.
Ultimately, Athuman’s return to Harambee Stars is not just about personal redemption—it is about unfinished business. He wants to correct the past, contribute to Kenyan football’s growth, and help the national team reach new heights.
If given the opportunity, there is little doubt that he will seize it with both hands and give his all for the Harambee Stars once more.
