Okwaro lands dream move to French side Stade de Reims

Harambee Stars defender Manzur Okwaro has taken a giant leap in his career, joining French Ligue 2 outfit Stade de Reims on loan from Nairobi United, with an option to buy.

Stade de Reims confirmed the transfer, stating that the 19-year-old will initially feature for the Pro 2 team as he adapts to European football, with plans to break into the senior squad in the coming seasons.

“He is a new player in the making who is settling down in Champagne,” Reims stated. “Okwaro signed his first professional contract at the beginning of 2026 after impressing both at club and international level.”

Okwaro’s rise has been rapid. Since his senior Kenya debut in March 2025, he has earned 10 international caps, impressing both at club and national level.

He has received attention from Egyptian Premier League side Al Masry and several other foreign clubs who are reportedly monitoring his progress.

His versatility as a left-sided centre-back and defensive midfielder, combined with composure on the ball, has made him one of Kenya’s brightest football prospects.

The defender’s journey began at St. Antony’s Boys in Kitale before moving through Rainbow FC, Compel FC, KCB FC, and Nairobi United.

A breakthrough year in 2025 saw him play a key role in Kenya reaching the CHAN quarter-finals.

Okwaro arrived in France last week, completed his medicals, and signed his contract.

He will join fellow Kenyan Joseph Okumu at Reims, as the club pushes for promotion to Ligue 1.

For Okwaro, it’s the start of an exciting European chapter; for Kenyan football, it’s a sign of local talent reaching global stages.