Dennis Oliech has adviced Joseph Okumu over his potential next career prospects amid recent links to Serie A side Roma.
Former Harambee Stars captain Dennis Oliech has explained why he believes Joseph Okumu should turn down a potential move to Italy amid past reports of a move to Serie A side Roma.
Oliech, who made 217 Ligue 1 appearances and scored 31 goals during his illustrious career, has called on Okumu’s camp to ensure he becomes the second Kenyan to play in the Premier League after Victor Wanyama.
“He has to move to the English Premier League in the summer. He has what it takes to thrive in England or Spain. Okumu has punched above his weight in France, Belgium, and Sweden and ought to test himself in a bigger competition next season,” Oliech told SportsBoom.com.
The metrics that indicate how Joseph Okumu is stylistically similar to some of the world’s best defenders, such as Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and PSG’s Danilo Pereirra.
Oliech, who has extensive Ligue 1 experience for clubs such as Nancy, AJ Ajaccio and Auxerre- a side he also tasted Champions League football with in the 2010/11 season, has urged Okumu to follow in the footsteps of his former defensive partner Emmanuel Agbadou and secure a transfer to the English Premier League or La Liga this summer.
Agbadou recently joined Wolves on a £16.6 million deal, leaving a void at Reims, where he had formed a formidable partnership with Okumu.
Okumu, a towering 1.90-meter centre-back, has also attracted interest from other clubs such as Arsenal, West Ham and Borussia Dortmund.
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The 26-year-old Kenyan international has joined the Will Still-coached side from Gent on a five-year contract
While Roma and Atalanta have reportedly shown strong interest, Oliech is skeptical about Okumu moving to Serie A. The former Kenyan captain expressed concerns about cultural and tactical challenges that could impede the defender’s progress.
“His style of play may not be compatible with the demands of the Italian league. Again, his qualities and quick rise suggest that he is better suited for either the EPL or La Liga,” Oliech explained.
He also warned of potential off-the-pitch issues, which he believes have historically derailed the careers of African players in Italy.
Okumu’s track record, which includes stints in Sweden, Belgium, and now France, has showcased his adaptability and consistency. Oliech sees these attributes as perfect for the intensity and competitiveness of the English Premier League.
“He is resilient and has overcome significant challenges to rise to where he is now. His agent must capitalize on the strong interest from English clubs to make this move happen in July,” Oliech concluded.
Victor Wanyama made history as the first Kenyan to play in the Premier League, representing Southampton and Tottenham from 2013 to 2020. Oliech believes Okumu can follow suit and raise Kenya’s profile further on the global football stage.
